Parenting Today's Teens Podcast, Heartlight Ministries

Parenting Today's Teens shares hard won wisdom, biblical perspective, and practical steps for navigating adolescence with grace and truth.

Released on 12/3/2025

Published by Heart Light Ministries

Episodes

I Mustache Mark a Question: Rebuilding Trust, Navigating Loss and Encouraging Independence

2/27/2026. 28min

Unpacking Reckless & Impulsive Behavior in Teens

3/2/2026. 25min

Navigating Radicalization and Acceptance in Today’s Teens

3/5/2026. 24min

Helping Teens Heal from Unresolved Hurt

3/4/2026. 12min

Teen Stories: Shedding the Mask

3/3/2026. 21min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Vaping, Drinking and the Search for Acceptance

3/6/2026. 26min

Mean Girls, Social Media and Building Resilience

3/12/2026. 26min

Helping Teens Process Pain and Heal

3/11/2026. 16min

Teen Stories: What's Left Unsaid

3/10/2026. 21min

How to Share Spiritual Values with Today’s Teens

3/9/2026. 26min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Balancing Boundaries and Building Trust

3/13/2026. 32min

Are You Passing on Bad Habits to Your Teens?

3/16/2026. 28min

Teen Stories: Out of Control

3/17/2026. 23min

Stop Controlling and Start Trusting Your Teen

3/18/2026. 24min

Navigating Teen Romance

3/19/2026. 27min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Respect, Rebellion and Raising Responsible Kids

3/20/2026. 27min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Setting Boundaries With Teens & Young Adults

3/27/2026. 22min

9 Things Boomers Do to Drive Away Their Children & Grandkids

3/26/2026. 29min

When Your Child's Choices Hurt

3/25/2026. 25min

Teen Stories: Looking For Answers

3/24/2026. 27min

Decisions That Shape Generations

3/23/2026. 28min

Teen Stories: When You Don't Feel Worthy

4/7/2026. 25min

Addressing the Fear Factor

4/6/2026. 27min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Setting Rules, Seeking Connection and Staying Calm

4/3/2026. 23min

Shut Your Mouth, Open Your Ears

4/2/2026. 16min

Understanding the ‘Why’ Behind Teen Outbursts

4/1/2026. 18min

Teen Stories: Finding Yourself Again

3/31/2026. 23min

Rescuing or Preparing: Are You Robbing Your Teen?

3/30/2026. 15min

The Power of Influence: Overcoming Negativity

4/8/2026. 19min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Handling Teen Drama and Risky Choices

4/10/2026. 35min

Searching for Connection: Why Your Teen Turns to Drugs

4/9/2026. 27min

Teen Stories: The Disconnection Dilemma

4/14/2026. 24min

The Cost of Fitting In

4/13/2026. 27min

Influenced by Encouragement

4/15/2026. 17min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Parenting Older Teens, Independence and Consequences

4/17/2026. 23min

Quit Correcting. Start Connecting.

4/16/2026. 17min

Breaking Patterns, Building Trust & Beating Boredom

4/20/2026. 26min

Teen Stories: Breaking the Cycle of Chaos

12/3/2024. 24min

Nurturing Leadership in Your Teen

12/2/2024. 15min

Knowing What’s Normal in the Teen Years

12/31/2025. 12min

Teen Stories: Letting Go of Old Habits

8/5/2025. 20min

Barriers to a Good Relationship with Your Teen

8/4/2025. 25min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Identity, Influence and Intimacy

8/1/2025. 28min

What’s Driving Today’s Teen Radicalization?

7/31/2025. 26min

Raising Responsible Teens

7/30/2025. 20min

Teen Stories: The Masks We Wear

7/29/2025. 21min

Making the Most of Summertime with Your Teen

7/28/2025. 24min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Screen Time Struggles

7/25/2025. 26min

A Mental Health Checkup for Teens

7/24/2025. 26min

The Power of Listening

7/23/2025. 20min

Teen Stories: What Really Drives Rebellion

7/22/2025. 22min

Why Do Teens Act Recklessly?

7/21/2025. 26min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Screentime, Structure and Standards

7/18/2025. 36min

Phones, Teens & Boundaries: How to Stay Connected Without Losing Control

7/17/2025. 26min

Are We Good Enough?

7/16/2025. 13min

Teen Stories: Taking a Step Back

7/15/2025. 21min

Supporting Your Teen with ADHD

7/14/2025. 26min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Culture, Connection and Crisis

7/11/2025. 27min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Dishonesty, Discipline and Distance

7/4/2025. 20min

Helping Your Teen Through Loss

7/3/2025. 24min

The Power of Presence and Legacy

7/2/2025. 14min

Teen Stories: Learning How to Trust Again

7/1/2025. 22min

When Your Teen's Tongue Turns Toxic

6/30/2025. 25min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Addiction, Attitude and Accountability

6/27/2025. 22min

The Cross and Your Teen

6/26/2025. 25min

The Importance of Listening

6/25/2025. 11min

Teen Stories: Learning Healthy Ways to Cope

6/24/2025. 23min

Teens and Faith

6/23/2025. 26min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Bullying, Boundaries and Beliefs

6/20/2025. 21min

How to Handle Hot Topics with Your Teen

6/19/2025. 25min

Relationship Over Expectations

6/18/2025. 22min

Teen Stories: The Road to Rebuilding Trust

6/17/2025. 20min

How to Gain Your Teen's Respect

6/16/2025. 25min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Faith, Family and Friction

6/13/2025. 35min

The Mentoring Role of Grandparents

6/12/2025. 23min

The Importance of Perspective

6/11/2025. 16min

Teen Stories: The Value of Real Self-Worth

6/10/2025. 22min

Is Your Teen Leading a Double Life?

6/9/2025. 25min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Trust, Tech and Transitions

6/6/2025. 17min

Teens and the Attraction of Drugs

6/5/2025. 23min

Rethinking Screen Time: How Phones Are Reshaping Childhood

6/4/2025. 23min

Teen Stories: Does Isolation Fuel Rebellion?

6/3/2025. 25min

An Intervention With Your Teen Before It’s Too Late

6/2/2025. 23min

How to Talk to Your Teen About Sex

5/29/2025. 24min

Quit Correcting and Start Connecting

5/28/2025. 22min

Teen Stories: Grieving and Growing

5/27/2025. 19min

Producing Authenticity in Your Home

5/26/2025. 25min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Freedom, Focus and Faith

5/23/2025. 20min

Busting Parenting Myths

5/22/2025. 23min

Listen More, Argue Less

5/21/2025. 18min

Teen Stories: Are We Truly Seeing Their Hurt?

5/20/2025. 20min

The Power of Saying I’m Sorry

5/19/2025. 24min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Consequences, Connection and Conversations That Matter

5/16/2025. 33min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Balancing Screen Time, Communication and Affirmation

2/6/2026. 11min

Helping Teens Develop Their Purpose

2/5/2026. 26min

Unconditional Love and Grace Over Performance

2/4/2026. 13min

Help for Teens Growing Up in a Chaotic World

5/15/2025. 24min

A Lifetime of Lessons on Making Things Right

5/14/2025. 11min

Teen Stories: Burdened by Expectations

5/13/2025. 20min

10 Things to Consider When Adopting

5/12/2025. 24min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Boundaries, Bullying and Belonging

5/9/2025. 25min

What’s to Blame?

5/8/2025. 23min

Train Up a Child in the Way He Should Go

5/7/2025. 24min

Teen Stories: Feeling Unseen

5/6/2025. 23min

When Your Teen Is Driving You Crazy

5/5/2025. 23min

A Journey to Genuineness

3/26/2025. 16min

Teen Stories: Finding Clarity Through Struggle

3/25/2025. 20min

Be Intentional This Spring Break

3/24/2025. 16min

The Disengaged Parent

2/13/2025. 11min

Mark's “Rules of the Road” for Grandparents

2/12/2025. 11min

Teen Stories: Addiction and the Journey to Recovery

2/11/2025. 19min

Parents Who Say No to Their Teens All the Time

2/10/2025. 11min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Navigating Grief and Responsibility

2/7/2025. 24min

Transforming Your Home: Steps for Positive Change

2/6/2025. 14min

One Key to a Better Relationship with Your Teen

2/5/2025. 9min

Teen Stories: Rebuilding Respect in Family Relationships

2/4/2025. 23min

Parenting in a World of Sexual Pressures

2/3/2025. 17min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Parenting Through Crisis

1/31/2025. 31min

Healthy Conflict With Your Teen

1/30/2025. 12min

Making a Difference — Right Where You Are

1/29/2025. 9min

Teen Stories: Numbing the Pain

1/28/2025. 26min

Marijuana and Teens: How to Have an Open Dialogue

1/27/2025. 15min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Integrity, Identity and Anxiety

1/24/2025. 21min

Parenting Teens Through Loss: Navigating Tough Emotions

1/23/2025. 15min

Fostering Healthy Social Media Habits with Your Teen

1/22/2025. 22min

Teen Stories: Beneath the Surface

12/2/2025. 19min

Is Your Teen Spinning Out of Control?

12/1/2025. 26min

Teen Stories: When a Family Splits in Two

1/21/2025. 21min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Drugs, Discipline and the Search for Support

11/28/2025. 29min

Behind the Screens: Tackling Bullying in the Digital Era

1/20/2025. 16min

Thanksgiving, Gratitude and Entitlement in Teens

11/27/2025. 26min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Disrespect, Depression and Desires

1/17/2025. 30min

Passing Down Wisdom, Not Just Information

11/26/2025. 27min

Teen Stories: Overcoming Darkness

11/25/2025. 22min

Parenting Teens with Patience: Addressing Selfishness with Grace

1/16/2025. 12min

Proverbs 3:21-24 and the Heart of Parenting

1/15/2025. 26min

Teen Stories: Wrestling with Anger and Finding Peace

1/14/2025. 23min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Respecting Privacy, Navigating Identity and Surviving Turmoil

10/10/2025. 31min

Are You Listening to Your Teen’s Heart?

10/9/2025. 25min

How to Influence Your Teen

10/8/2025. 24min

Are You Hearing Your Teen's Heart?

11/24/2025. 24min

Teen Stories: Covering Hurt with a Smile

10/7/2025. 22min

Stop Teen Foolishness and Promote Wisdom

10/6/2025. 25min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Managing Mental Health

12/6/2024. 20min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Dating Drama, Destructive Decisions and Disconnection

10/3/2025. 28min

Acting on What You Believe

10/2/2025. 24min

Letting Go of “Perfect Parenting”

10/1/2025. 23min

Teen Stories: Breaking the Cycle of Shame

9/30/2025. 21min

Teen Suicide: Knowing the Warning Signs

9/29/2025. 25min

The Harm of Pressuring Teens to Be Perfect

12/5/2024. 17min

Relationship First: Unlocking the Secret to Effective Parenting

12/4/2024. 16min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Safe Spaces, Serious Signs and Self-Reflection

9/26/2025. 31min

Responding to a Teens Substance Abuse

9/25/2025. 26min

Listening and Loving Well

9/24/2025. 18min

Teen Stories: From Isolation to Connection

9/23/2025. 21min

Teen Depression and Its Consequences

9/22/2025. 26min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Social Struggles, Secret Scars and Shifting Stances

9/19/2025. 34min

Teens and Running Away

9/18/2025. 25min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Busy Teens, Broken Homes and Boy Band Fandoms

11/21/2025. 28min

What to Expect When Adopted Children Become Teens

11/20/2025. 29min

Teen Stories: "Broken, But Healing"

8/13/2024. 20min

Choose Grace Over Perfectionism

11/19/2025. 23min

Big Impacts from Small Talk

4/24/2024. 14min

Teen Stories: When Discipline Divides

11/18/2025. 22min

Understanding the Heart Behind Teen Anger

9/17/2025. 17min

Why Heartlight?

11/17/2025. 25min

Teen Stories: Searching for Direction

9/16/2025. 20min

Teaching Teens Financial Responsibility

9/15/2025. 25min

The Heart Behind Your Teen's Behavior

10/29/2025. 24min

Teen Stories: Beyond Surface Level

10/28/2025. 22min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Senior Slumps, Screen Time and Safe Spaces

9/12/2025. 33min

Sibling Conflict in Your Home

9/11/2025. 25min

The Power of Relationship in Parenting

9/10/2025. 15min

Teen Stories: Wrestling With Rejection

9/9/2025. 22min

Helping Your Teen Build Resilience

9/8/2025. 25min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Vaping, Video Games and Values

9/5/2025. 32min

How Important Is School?

9/4/2025. 27min

Keeping Your Identity Outside of Parenting

10/27/2025. 26min

The Silent Struggle — Your Teen And Divorce

7/10/2025. 25min

Reflecting on a Health Journey

7/9/2025. 14min

Why Criticism Hurts More Than It Helps

9/3/2025. 17min

Teen Stories: Running From Reality

7/8/2025. 18min

Teen Stories: Healing Through Honesty

9/2/2025. 20min

Sharing Your Perspective Rather Than Your Opinion

9/1/2025. 26min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Motivation, Mistakes and Maturity

8/29/2025. 30min

The Benefits of Counseling for Teens

8/28/2025. 25min

How Loss Can Change a Teen

7/7/2025. 24min

Making Every Day a Special Occasion

8/27/2025. 19min

Teen Stories: Turning Points

8/26/2025. 22min

When Your Teen Won't Open Up

8/25/2025. 26min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Anxiety, Attitude and Accountability

8/22/2025. 38min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Grief, Guidance and Grace

5/30/2025. 21min

Raising Socially Awkward Teens

8/21/2025. 25min

Unlocking Your Teen's Heart With Questions

8/20/2025. 17min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Consequences, Communication and Culture Clashes

11/14/2025. 31min

Attention-Seeking Teens

11/13/2025. 26min

Love in Actions, Not Just Words

11/12/2025. 10min

Teen Stories: Longing for Connection

8/19/2025. 26min

Teen Stories: Finding Purpose Through Pain

11/11/2025. 22min

How Dads Can Build Strong Relationships With Their Teens

8/18/2025. 26min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Rules, Rebellion and Relationship

8/15/2025. 32min

Your Teen's Exposure to Pornography

11/10/2025. 25min

Mean Girls and Social Media

8/14/2025. 26min

Learning From Pain

8/13/2025. 20min

I Mustache Mark a Question: When Sarcasm Hurts, Bullies Strike and Trust Is Broken

11/7/2025. 27min

Teen Stories: When Fitting in Leads to a Falling Out

8/12/2025. 20min

Teaching, Training and Transferring Responsibility to Your Teen

11/6/2025. 25min

Sharing Your Faith With Your Teen

8/11/2025. 25min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Ministry, Motive and Mission

8/8/2025. 35min

Helping Teens See Beyond the Screen

11/5/2025. 21min

I Mustache Mark a Question: College, Curfews and Restoring Connection

10/24/2025. 31min

Responding to Sexually Abused Teens

10/23/2025. 24min

Grandparenting with Grace: A Home Teens Can Trust

10/22/2025. 26min

Teen Stories: Talking It Out

10/21/2025. 19min

Helping Your Teen Heal from the Pain of Divorce

10/20/2025. 24min

Teen Stories: Healing Broken Bonds

11/4/2025. 26min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Grief, Growth and Guiding Teens Through Tough Choices

10/17/2025. 33min

When It's Time for Your Teen to Grow Up

10/16/2025. 26min

It's All About Perspective

10/15/2025. 18min

Teen Stories: You Can't Run From Your Struggles

10/14/2025. 19min

Your Teen's Inappropriate Behavior

11/3/2025. 24min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Tech Rules, Frustration and Family Rifts

10/31/2025. 26min

Is Dating Right for Your Teen?

10/13/2025. 24min

Listening to Your Teen on a Deeper Level

8/7/2025. 26min

Teens and Politics

10/30/2025. 24min

Speaking Truth in a Culture of Confusion

12/3/2025. 23min

An Anchor of Certainty

8/6/2025. 24min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Video Games, Internet Safety and Smartphone Usage

5/2/2025. 28min

Mean Girls and Social Media

5/1/2025. 23min

Walk with the Wise

4/30/2025. 26min

Teen Stories: Finding True Connection

4/29/2025. 19min

Are You Really Listening to Your Teen?

4/28/2025. 23min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Self-Esteem, Screens and Social Scenes

4/25/2025. 26min

Getting at the Heart of Your Teen's Anger

4/24/2025. 23min

Rules of the Road for Grandparents

4/23/2025. 12min

Teen Stories: Dual Realities

4/22/2025. 22min

Modesty and My Daughter

4/21/2025. 25min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Girlfriends, Gaming and Guardrails

4/18/2025. 20min

Hope for Families at Easter

4/17/2025. 23min

Ingredients for Parenting Your Teens

4/16/2025. 11min

Teen Stories: Searching for Acceptance

4/15/2025. 22min

Responding to a Teen's Substance Abuse

4/14/2025. 24min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Controversial Conversations

4/11/2025. 20min

Teen Depression and Its Consequences

4/10/2025. 23min

Trusting God Through Life’s Hardships

4/9/2025. 11min

Teen Stories: Rebuilding Broken Connections

4/8/2025. 20min

Does Your Teen Smile Anymore?

4/7/2025. 24min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Screentime, Social Media and Setting Limits

4/4/2025. 13min

Motivating Your Unmotivated Teen

4/3/2025. 23min

Making Memories Before You Lose Yours

4/2/2025. 19min

Teen Stories: Finding Hope in the Darkness

4/1/2025. 20min

Your Teen in a World of Alcohol and Marijuana

3/31/2025. 24min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Addressing Anxiety, Technology and Identity

3/28/2025. 33min

Reconnecting the Disconnected Relationships at Home

3/27/2025. 23min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Church Changes, Digital Dilemmas and Dating Decisions

3/21/2025. 25min

Why You Shouldn't Always Rescue Your Teen

3/20/2025. 23min

Is Conflict Avoidance Hurting Your Relationships?

3/19/2025. 17min

Teen Stories: Embracing Real Change

3/18/2025. 21min

Your Authoritative Parenting Style Doesn’t Work

3/17/2025. 24min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Vaping, Drinking and Family Tension

3/14/2025. 28min

Grandparenting Today's Teens

3/13/2025. 25min

What You Do Matters More Than What You Say

3/12/2025. 10min

Teen Stories: At Arm's Length

3/11/2025. 22min

Is Your Teen Rebellious or Lost?

3/10/2025. 25min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Consequences, Communication and Connection

3/7/2025. 23min

Parenting Teens with Conviction and Compassion

3/6/2025. 15min

What If My Teen Thinks I Owe Them Everything

3/5/2025. 16min

Teen Stories: The Power of Imperfections

3/4/2025. 21min

Your Teen's Search for Wisdom

3/3/2025. 16min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Senioritis, Substance Abuse and Security

2/28/2025. 20min

Understanding the Loss Behind Your Teen’s Behavior

2/27/2025. 16min

Creating a Comfortable Haven for Your Teens

2/26/2025. 10min

Teen Stories: Accepting Help

2/25/2025. 21min

Bridging the Gap with Your Teen

2/24/2025. 16min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Respect and Responsibility

2/21/2025. 23min

Six Ways to Stop Yelling at Your Teen

2/20/2025. 15min

Do the Right Thing

2/19/2025. 11min

Teen Stories: Dealing with Dark Thoughts

2/18/2025. 21min

Encouragement for Adoptive Parents

2/17/2025. 15min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Digital Boundaries and Family Dynamics

2/14/2025. 30min

Strengthen Your Relationship with Your Teen Through Intentional Parenting

1/13/2025. 16min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Parenting Styles, College Transitions and Pop Culture

1/10/2025. 26min

5 Steps to Transform Your Home and Strengthen Your Bond with Your Teen

1/9/2025. 14min

The Importance of Perspective

1/8/2025. 18min

Teen Stories: When You've Lost Your Way

1/7/2025. 20min

The Role of Discipline in Building a Stronger Bond with Your Teen

1/6/2025. 13min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Communication and Connection

1/3/2025. 30min

Standing Strong: Encouragement for Single Parents

1/2/2025. 13min

Reflect, Renew and Transform Your Family

1/1/2025. 12min

Teen Stories: What's Really Behind Anger?

12/31/2024. 21min

When Good Parenting Falls Short

12/30/2024. 12min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Disrespect, Drug Issues and Diverse Parenting Styles

12/27/2024. 25min

Craving Realness: Why Teens Need Authenticity

12/26/2024. 13min

Reflect, Renew and Transform Your Family

12/25/2024. 19min

Teen Stories: Healing Takes Time

12/24/2024. 24min

The Reality of Teen Drug Use

12/23/2024. 13min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Are You Hindering Your Teen’s Growth?

12/20/2024. 33min

Teaching Your Teen the Art of Struggling Well

12/19/2024. 17min

The Gift of Perspective: A Christmas Reflection

12/18/2024. 10min

Teen Stories: Facing Childhood Trauma

12/17/2024. 23min

How to Raise Resilient Teens: Essential Parenting Skills

12/16/2024. 16min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Boundaries, Bullying and Belonging

12/13/2024. 30min

When Teens Challenge Your Values: A Parent’s Guide

12/12/2024. 15min

The Power of Intentional Time with Your Teen

12/11/2024. 25min

Teen Stories: Cracks in the Armor

12/10/2024. 25min

The Danger of Doing Too Much for Your Kids

12/9/2024. 15min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Faith, Relationships and Responsibility

11/29/2024. 28min

Trusting God and Finding Thanks: Encouragement for Parents of Teens

11/28/2024. 18min

A Path of Gratefulness

11/27/2024. 10min

Teen Stories: What Sparks Self-Destructive Behavior?

11/26/2024. 25min

How to Help Your Teen Cope Without Self-Medicating

11/25/2024. 16min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Preparing Teens for Adulthood

11/22/2024. 26min

Helping Your Teen Navigate Today’s Online Challenges

11/21/2024. 14min

The Pain of Perfectionism: How Unrealistic Expectations Can Hurt Our Kids

11/20/2024. 23min

Teen Stories: The Weight of Depression

11/19/2024. 29min

Embracing the Uncomfortable in Parenting Teens

11/18/2024. 14min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Anger Issues, Academic Struggles and Navigating Grief

11/15/2024. 33min

Grandparenting With Purpose: Building Bonds With Teens

11/14/2024. 16min

Parenting With Wisdom, Not Information

11/13/2024. 28min

Teen Stories: Why Emotional Honesty Is Important

11/12/2024. 27min

5 Ways to Support Your Teen’s Soul

11/11/2024. 14min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Authority, Identity and Influences

11/8/2024. 26min

Grace Under Pressure: Kids of Ministry Leaders

11/7/2024. 12min

Guiding Our Kids: Balancing Wants and Needs in a Changing World

11/6/2024. 23min

Teen Stories: The Ups and Downs of Adoption

11/5/2024. 27min

Developing Responsibility in Your Teen

11/4/2024. 17min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Navigating Sarcasm, Bullying and Mental Health

11/1/2024. 24min

Navigating the Sexualization of Youth

10/31/2024. 14min

How Grandparents Can Offer a Place of Peace

10/30/2024. 27min

Teen Stories: Rebuilding After Trauma

10/29/2024. 23min

Rules or Ruler: Finding Balance in Parenting

10/28/2024. 19min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Anxiety, Anger and Double Lives

10/25/2024. 29min

Finding Balance: Empowering Teens Without Overcontrol

10/24/2024. 15min

The Impact of Loss: Helping Children Heal

10/23/2024. 17min

Teen Stories: Shutting Out the Family

10/22/2024. 24min

The Power of Presence: How Dads Shape Families

10/21/2024. 12min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Identity, Defiance and Discipline

10/18/2024. 26min

Why Teens Show Disrespect — and How to Respond

10/17/2024. 14min

Helping Your Teen Navigate Behavior Changes and Loss

10/16/2024. 12min

Teen Stories: From Rebellion to Redemption

10/15/2024. 21min

Consistency in Parenting: A Unified Approach

10/14/2024. 12min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Balancing Love, Rules and Healing

10/11/2024. 31min

Navigating Bullying with Your Teen

10/10/2024. 19min

Healing Your Heart: Discovering Your Identity in God

10/9/2024. 17min

Teen Stories: Overcoming a Painful Past

10/8/2024. 22min

Parenting with Purpose: The Power of a Thoughtful Approach

10/7/2024. 19min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Consequences, Cell Phones and Vaping

10/4/2024. 21min

Building a Family Belief System: Clarity and Grace

10/3/2024. 16min

Helping Your Teen Navigate Anger

10/2/2024. 17min

Teen Stories: Healing Happens One Step at a Time

10/1/2024. 19min

Supporting Your Teen Through Life's Challenges

9/30/2024. 17min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Identity Crises and Serious Mental Health Issues

9/27/2024. 28min

Helping Teens Become Independent

9/26/2024. 15min

The Power of Influence: Reflections on Encouragement and Legacy

9/25/2024. 16min

Teen Stories: Fleeing Your Problems

9/24/2024. 26min

Helping Teens Navigate Bad Influences

9/23/2024. 15min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Navigating Grief, Boundaries and Relationships

9/20/2024. 28min

Entitlement vs. Gratitude: Shaping Your Teen's Heart

9/19/2024. 14min

Is It Time to Rethink Your Approach to Parenting?

9/18/2024. 17min

Teen Stories: Why Social Media Can Be a Lonely Place

9/17/2024. 19min

Empowering Your Teen: The Key to Building Independence

9/16/2024. 14min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Pornography, Depression and Disrespect

9/13/2024. 17min

Dangerous Behavior and Your Teen

9/12/2024. 14min

Creating Lasting Memories Before They're Gone

9/11/2024. 19min

Teen Stories: Worthy of Love

9/10/2024. 19min

When Church Feels Like a Chore: Helping Your Teen Stay Engaged

9/9/2024. 15min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Integrity, Anxiety and Family Tension

9/6/2024. 21min

The Anatomy of Anger

9/5/2024. 14min

How to Handle a Disrespectful Teen

9/4/2024. 19min

Teen Stories: Finding Direction After Disruption

9/3/2024. 20min

From Reconciliation to Restoration

9/2/2024. 17min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Teen Social Media Use

8/30/2024. 11min

Creating a Home with Room for Forgiveness

8/29/2024. 14min

Helping or Hurting? Setting Realistic Expectations for Your Teen

8/28/2024. 13min

Teen Stories: Shielded by Anger

8/27/2024. 21min

Handling Anger and Disrespect From Your Teen

8/26/2024. 13min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Tech Troubles, Tattoo Talks and Teen Gaming

8/23/2024. 27min

Cell Phones and Boundaries

8/22/2024. 16min

How to Do More Than Just "Get Through" Conflict

8/21/2024. 17min

Teen Stories: Overcoming Communication Barriers

8/20/2024. 19min

How to Create — and Embrace — an Imperfect Home

8/19/2024. 15min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Adopted Teens and Consequences

8/16/2024. 3min

Rescuing Your Teen

8/15/2024. 12min

Finding Joy in Life's Ups and Downs

8/14/2024. 22min

Learning to Shut Your Mouth and Open Your Ears

8/12/2024. 14min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Video Game Addiction

8/9/2024. 7min

Turning Down the Heat: Managing Teen and Parent Anger

8/8/2024. 13min

What Are Teens Really Looking For?

8/7/2024. 27min

Teen Stories: When Strict Parenting Backfires

8/6/2024. 20min

10 Common Parenting Mistakes That Drive Teens Away

8/5/2024. 13min

I Mustache Mark a Question: The Power of Asking Questions

8/2/2024. 28min

Balancing Traditional Values and Modern Realities

8/1/2024. 16min

Keeping Your Cool While Raising an Angry Teen

7/31/2024. 17min

Teen Stories: Surviving the Dark Days

7/30/2024. 21min

How Can We Show Our Kids They're Valued?

7/29/2024. 14min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Encouraging Self-Sufficiency

7/26/2024. 7min

The Impact of Digital Overexposure

7/25/2024. 10min

Guiding Teens in a World Drowning in Information

7/24/2024. 22min

Teen Stories: Breaking Cycles

7/23/2024. 22min

How to Truly Connect with Your Teen in a Digital World

7/22/2024. 13min

I Mustache Mark a Question: When to Consider Heartlight

7/19/2024. 22min

Finding the Balance: Involved Parenting vs. Helicopter Parenting

7/18/2024. 11min

Is Your Teen Fighting for Control?

7/17/2024. 21min

Teen Stories: Second Chances

7/16/2024. 19min

Tips for Supporting a Grieving Teen

7/15/2024. 15min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Teen Anxiety

7/12/2024. 21min

Why Are Teens Struggling With Real Connections?

7/11/2024. 13min

What Motivates Your Child’s Choices?

7/10/2024. 26min

Teen Stories: The Struggle for Control and Freedom

7/9/2024. 23min

When Your Teen Won’t Leave the Nest

7/8/2024. 19min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Discipline, Deception and Developing Independence

7/5/2024. 25min

Understanding the Impact of Divorce on Teens

7/4/2024. 16min

Are Your Expectations Pushing Your Teen Away?

7/3/2024. 17min

Teen Stories: Why Open Communication Is Important

7/2/2024. 25min

Instilling Competence, Compassion and Self-Control in Teens

7/1/2024. 17min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Loving Teens Through Challenges and Changes

6/28/2024. 38min

Embracing Your Role as a Grandparent

6/27/2024. 13min

Is It Time for a Fresh Perspective?

6/26/2024. 16min

Teen Stories: Silently Struggling

6/25/2024. 23min

Tips for Correcting Your Teen (Without the Drama)

6/24/2024. 17min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Handling a Troubled Teen

6/21/2024. 28min

Creating Healthy Boundaries

6/20/2024. 15min

Rewiring Childhood: Understanding the Impact of Smartphones

6/19/2024. 23min

Teen Stories: From Rock Bottom to Redemption

6/18/2024. 20min

Building Responsibility in Tweens

6/17/2024. 16min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Identity, Independence and Influence

6/14/2024. 29min

Do You Need to Reevaluate Your Parenting Strategies?

6/13/2024. 19min

Teaching Teens to Respect Authority in Today's World

6/12/2024. 19min

Teen Stories: Digital Detox

6/11/2024. 21min

Turning Everyday Moments Into Meaningful Connections

6/10/2024. 10min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Building Strong Families

6/7/2024. 30min

Parenting a Prodigal

6/6/2024. 8min

Connecting Over Correcting

6/5/2024. 22min

Teen Stories: Alone in the World

6/4/2024. 21min

Figuring Out Teen Triggers

6/3/2024. 15min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Communication, Connection and Conflict Resolution

5/31/2024. 16min

Instilling and Validating Value in Your Teen

5/30/2024. 17min

Why Listening Is the Ultimate Parenting Superpower

5/29/2024. 21min

Teen Stories: Reclaiming Self-Worth

5/28/2024. 22min

Is Your Teen Going to Extremes?

5/27/2024. 12min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Social Exclusion, Sibling Rivalry and Setting Boundaries

5/24/2024. 26min

Connection Through Correction

5/23/2024. 17min

Finding Balance in Our Expectations

5/22/2024. 24min

Teen Stories: When Depression Takes Hold

5/21/2024. 27min

More Than Meets the Eye: Unpacking Bad Behavior

5/20/2024. 12min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Self-Worth, Substance Use and Secret Lives

5/17/2024. 7min

What Teens Wish Parents Knew

5/16/2024. 11min

What Will You Be Remembered For?

5/15/2024. 18min

Teen Stories: The Roots of Rebellion

5/14/2024. 22min

Letting Go Gracefully: Tips on Raising Independent Teens

5/13/2024. 17min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Online Safety, Delayed Maturity and Sensitive Teen Topics

5/10/2024. 20min

Bridging the Gap: Effective Communication Strategies with Teens

5/9/2024. 11min

Guiding Teens Through Their Darkest Times

5/8/2024. 32min

Teen Stories: Managing Mental Health

5/7/2024. 20min

Finding Hope in the Chaos

5/6/2024. 11min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Intimacy, Influence and Interfaith Relationships

5/3/2024. 24min

Why Do Teens Lie?

5/2/2024. 9min

Sharing Wisdom in Your Teen's World

5/1/2024. 27min

Teen Stories: Craving Validation

4/30/2024. 19min

Protecting Purity: Approaching the Conversation With Wisdom

4/29/2024. 8min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Pornography, Power Struggles and Parental Influence

4/26/2024. 19min

Balancing Protection and Autonomy

4/25/2024. 12min

Teen Stories: What's Behind Bad Choices?

4/23/2024. 18min

When Silence Builds Walls

4/22/2024. 17min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Managing and Responding to Teen Attitude

4/19/2024. 14min

Navigating Teen Responses to Stress: Fight, Flight or Freeze

4/18/2024. 16min

The Risks of Overparenting: Preparing Teens for the Real World

4/17/2024. 20min

Teen Stories: Navigating Loss, Adoption and Rebellious Behavior

4/16/2024. 21min

Beyond Correction: Building Loving Bonds with Your Teen

4/15/2024. 12min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Gender Identity, Social Media and Romance Novels

4/12/2024. 26min

The Unexpected Rejection

4/11/2024. 18min

Communicating With Compassion

4/10/2024. 18min

Teen Stories: A Path to Peace

4/9/2024. 22min

Navigating the "I Don't Want to Go to Church" Conversation

4/8/2024. 11min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Love, Loss and Lifestyle Choices

4/5/2024. 35min

“The Cost of Conflict Avoidance”

4/4/2024. 15min

Life Lessons from a Near-Drowning Experience

4/3/2024. 23min

Teen Stories: Seeking Belonging

4/2/2024. 22min

Teens and Faith: Figuring It Out Together

4/1/2024. 10min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Prioritizing Relationship Over Behavior

3/29/2024. 4min

Embracing Brokenness: A Path to Healing for Parents and Teens

3/28/2024. 13min

Are You Nurturing Your Teen's Spirit?

3/27/2024. 14min

Teen Stories: Self-Sabotage

3/26/2024. 19min

Parent or Pal: Striking the Right Balance in Your Teen's Life

3/25/2024. 14min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Lying, Loneliness and Love

3/22/2024. 20min

Recognizing and Healing Self-Harm in Teens

3/21/2024. 13min

Balancing Protection with Preparedness

3/20/2024. 20min

Teen Stories: Growing Through Pain

3/19/2024. 20min

Are You Missing the Meaningful Moments?

3/18/2024. 10min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Dating, Faith, Identity and Independence

3/15/2024. 25min

Should You Be Friends With Your Teen?

3/14/2024. 12min

Do You Have a Flexible Parenting Approach?

3/13/2024. 17min

Teen Stories: Finding the Way Forward

3/12/2024. 19min

What Every Parent Should Know About Navigating Social Media

3/11/2024. 18min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Is Tough Love Still Unconditional Love?

3/8/2024. 21min

Privacy vs. Protection in the Digital Realm

3/7/2024. 11min

What Does Your Journey to Genuineness Look Like?

3/6/2024. 16min

Teen Stories: When Technology Turns Harmful

3/5/2024. 20min

Keeping Up With Your Teen

3/4/2024. 15min

I Mustache Mark a Question: The Search for Connection and Identity

3/1/2024. 33min

The Power of Pain

2/29/2024. 14min

Navigating the Maze of Teen Struggles

2/28/2024. 17min

Teen Stories: The Weight of Expectations

2/27/2024. 21min

Building Trust with Teen Grandkids

2/26/2024. 14min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Reaching Your Teen's Heart

2/23/2024. 25min

Building Character and Encouraging Integrity in Your Teen

2/22/2024. 10min

Letting Teens Take the Wheel

2/21/2024. 21min

Teen Stories: Turning Pain Into Progress

2/20/2024. 19min

Preparing for Peer Pressure

2/19/2024. 14min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Addressing Risky Teen Behavior

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston delves deep into listeners’ tough, but not uncommon, questions. From dealing with risky behaviors like vaping and sexual promiscuity to handling the emotional challenges of adoption, Mark offers his wisdom on...

2/16/2024. 33min

Five Markers of a Healthy Relationship With Your Teen

Have you ever stopped and thought about what really builds strong connections between people, especially your kids? Join hosts Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd as they unpack the essential elements that form lasting bonds between parents and teens. In...

2/15/2024. 13min

The Power of Perspective

In order to effectively communicate wisdom to your teens, you need to know how to share your perspective AND see theirs! The viewpoints may look very different, but with a little work, you both can find understanding. In today's show, Mark reflects on...

2/14/2024. 20min

Teen Stories: Mending the Broken Pieces

High school is a tough time for many teens, full of different experiences and challenges — and sometimes bad influences. In today's episode, Mark sits down with two teens who found themselves in a downhill spiral in high school, including one young...

2/13/2024. 18min

Growing Up in a Changing World

As parents, we want to protect our kids. But if you spend too much time trying to control your teen's world, you'll never have the chance to teach them how to live in the real one. In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd address the...

2/12/2024. 10min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Discouraging Grades, Divorce and Disturbing Media

In this episode, Mark Gregston tackles pressing questions from parents about their teenagers' behavior and struggles. He shares valuable insights on connecting with reserved teens, guiding struggling students, addressing self-esteem issues, rebuilding...

2/9/2024. 26min

Parenting Is Not for the Faint of Heart

Feelings that aren't spoken out will be acted out. So, when actions speak louder than words, that’s your cue to dig a little deeper. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd encourage parents to move toward their teens during...

2/8/2024. 13min

How Well Do You Understand Your Teen's World?

Our teens are growing up surrounded by a performance-driven, selfish culture. It leaves them overwhelmed and looking for real guidance — but you need to understand where they're coming from to be able to give them practical advice. In today's...

2/7/2024. 24min

Teen Stories: Rebuilding Communication Lines

When teens make poor choices or start spiraling, communication between kids and their parents often start shutting down, leading to more problems. In today's episode, Mark talks to two young ladies from Heartlight, both of whom talk about the...

2/6/2024. 16min

Handling Teen Struggles Without Stressing Your Marriage

If you're married, you've probably experienced the difficulties of keeping a united front with your spouse when your teen is struggling. So how do you protect your marriage when chaos strikes? In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore...

2/5/2024. 17min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Understanding Behavior and Setting Boundaries

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions submitted by parents about dealing with teens who don't seem to learn from consequences. He shares valuable insights on how to approach discipline, communicate effectively and stay calm when faced...

2/2/2024. 21min

Relationship First, Rules Second

If you’re relying on authority alone to get through to your teen, you won’t get very far. Kids are more likely to follow rules and accept consequences when they’re rooted in a solid relationship. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne...

2/1/2024. 14min

Keep Seeking Your Child's Heart

You can do all the "right" things as a parent and still not understand the hopes and fears inside your child's heart unless you cultivate a true relationship with them. In today's show, Mark shares his insights on parents' crucial role in guiding and...

1/31/2024. 19min

Teen Stories: The Quest for Independence

Teens rarely rebel at random. All behavior — even the rebellious kind — is goal-driven. As we hear in today's stories, sometimes teens act out because they're seeking freedom and feel smothered by their parents. Mark sits down with two Heartlight...

1/30/2024. 17min

Practical Parenting Tactics in a Me-Centric Culture

Does it sometimes seem like your teen expects the world to revolve around them? It's no secret — teens can be very selfish. So, what should you do to correct this behavior? In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd have a...

1/29/2024. 17min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Controversial Conversations

As parents, it's essential to navigate tough conversations with teens while maintaining a deep relationship, even when faced with controversial issues. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston addresses questions sent in by parents on issues from...

1/26/2024. 27min

Is Your Love Conditional?

Teens long to be loved unconditionally, especially when they deserve it the least. When kids feel that they'll lose love for making mistakes, they may resort to lying or seeking love in the wrong places. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne...

1/25/2024. 14min

Building Bridges, Not Walls

Being judgmental when your teen has made a mistake and needs help can build a wall between you that is hard to tear down. There's a time for consequences, but there is also a time for empathy and support. In today's episode, Mark discusses the...

1/24/2024. 17min

Teen Stories: Why Family Support Matters

Teens who are hurting may feel like the best thing to do is pull away and face their problems alone, but at the end of the day, having support from parents and grandparents can make all the difference. In today's episode, Mark talks with two more...

1/23/2024. 18min

Tackling Teen Entitlement

An entitled, demanding teen can be a nightmare. There are plenty of parents out there who feel this pain, but in today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd provide practical strategies for empowering parents to raise respectful teens. Their...

1/22/2024. 16min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Guiding Teens with Grace

In today's episode, Mark Gregston responds to questions from parents, offering advice on everything from navigating relationship complexities to guiding a boundary-pushing 20-year-old and understanding troubled teen behavior. He advocates for a shift...

1/19/2024. 27min

Discipline Without Shame

How parents respond to their teens' mistakes and missteps plays a significant role in the length of time kids spend in darkness and the type of relationship parents have with them. While guilt can serve as a healthy indicator of wrongdoing, shame can...

1/18/2024. 16min

Letting Go of Perfect Parenting

Are you trapped in a cycle of trying to be a "perfect" parent? We all want to do the best we can for our kids — and have them do THEIR best — but chasing perfection can do more harm than good. In this episode, Mark shares a personal and...

1/17/2024. 23min

Teen Stories: Masking Emotions

Almost everyone has found themselves bottling up their feelings at one point or another — but if that habit keeps up, the bottle is bound to burst. In today's episode, Mark sits down with two teens from Heartlight, including Santana, who was...

1/16/2024. 20min

Do You Know How to Parent With Grace?

Extending grace to a teen who's acting out can be challenging, but responding to your teen's mistakes in a firm but gentle way can make a huge difference in your relationship. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd delve into the...

1/15/2024. 15min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Growing with Your Teens

If you think your parenting journey ends at 18, think again. Join Mark Gregston in today’s episode, where he tackles pressing questions from parents with older adolescents. He addresses issues such as setting boundaries for older teens, the delicate...

1/12/2024. 20min

How to Ask Good Questions

Hey parents! Are you tired of getting one-word answers from your teen? Whether you're struggling to engage in meaningful conversations with your kid or simply want to enhance your communication skills, it all starts with asking questions that demand...

1/11/2024. 12min

Empowering Teens with Truth, Love and Intentional Conversations

Do you want to have a deep, lasting relationship with your teen? Intentionality is key! In this episode of Parenting Today's Teens, Mark shares insights on how to connect with your teen in a more meaningful way. Using personal stories and scripture,...

1/10/2024. 28min

Teen Stories: Internal Battles

The teenage years are full of ups and downs as our kids try to figure out who they are and how they fit into the world. But when self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy creep into the picture, it can lead them into a spiral. In today's interviews with...

1/9/2024. 20min

The Pitfalls of Performance-Based Parenting

Our teens are faced with a world that judges them based on performance — whether it's their grades, their athletics or if they're keeping up with the latest makeup trends. If your child also feels like they need to gain your approval through...

1/8/2024. 13min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Boundaries, Boundaries, Boundaries

In today's episode, Mark Gregston addresses some of the most challenging questions parents are facing in their relationships with their teens. From dealing with adopted children struggling with anger and mental health issues, to navigating...

1/5/2024. 23min

Raising an Independent Teen

Have you ever met a parent who dreams of their child being forever dependent on them? We bet not! In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into the challenges of understanding and supporting a teen's need for independence. Offering...

1/4/2024. 13min

What Do Teens Really Want?

All behavior is goal-oriented, but sometimes, it can be really hard to see what your teen's goal was when they make a bad decision or act out of character. What are they actually looking for? In today's episode, Mark shares a personal devotional on...

1/3/2024. 24min

Teen Stories: Healing the Wound of Rejection

Part of being a teen is trying to figure out where you fit in, and, unfortunately, feeling rejected sometimes comes with the territory. But for many adopted teens, rejection can open up old wounds. In today's episode, Mark sits down with two young...

1/2/2024. 19min

Starting Fresh: Practical Tips for a New Year

Happy New Year, listeners! We're wishing the very best for you and your loved ones in 2024! In today's holiday episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd tackle the topic of making a fresh start in the new year with your family. They discuss the...

1/1/2024. 13min

I Mustache Mark a Question: The Search for Identity

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers pressing questions from parents dealing with everything from a senior son who's checked out of school, to addressing substance abuse, the loss of friends and navigating a post-divorce life. Mark reminds us...

12/29/2023. 19min

The Power of Forgiveness

Holding onto bitterness can be detrimental to any family. Teens will make mistakes and disappoint, but as parents, forgiveness is the release valve that prevents bitterness from building up and causing explosive situations. In today’s episode, Mark...

12/28/2023. 14min

Cherishing Everyday Moments

Life with busy teens is hectic, and it can be hard to slow down and enjoy the small moments. But at the end of the day, they can be some of the most important. In today's show, Mark reflects on the life lessons that taught him to understand the value...

12/27/2023. 19min

Teen Stories: Mismatched Expectations

When parents and teens have different ideas of how the teen's life should look, it can lead to frustration, disappointment and hurt feelings. Learning to communicate appropriate expectations is key! In today's episode, Mark sits down with some young...

12/26/2023. 20min

Creating a Safe Harbor at Home

Merry Christmas, Parenting Today's Teens family! In today's special holiday episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the challenges of parenting in a constantly changing world. They share insights on how parents can create a lasting...

12/25/2023. 17min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Loving Unconditionally Without Compromise

In today's episode, Mark Gregston tackles pressing questions from parents grappling with issues like the value of integrity and handling unbiblical sexuality without compromise. His advice underscores the importance of setting an example through...

12/22/2023. 21min

7 Keys for Building a Lasting Relationship

Are you a parent looking to strengthen your relationship with your teen? Today's fast-paced world makes building and maintaining a strong bond with your kid quite the challenge. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share seven keys...

12/21/2023. 14min

Recognizing Normal Teen Behavior — and Red Flags

Plenty of parents don't feel like they know what "normal" teen behavior is supposed to look like in today's culture. Do they have a messy room because they're depressed? Or are they just distracted with the busyness of life? In today's show, Mark...

12/20/2023. 10min

Teen Stories: Coping With Change

Whether it's moving across the country or watching family dynamics shift around you, dealing with big life changes is hard at any age. In today's episode, Mark sits down with two more teens from Heartlight to hear their unique stories. Andrew opens up...

12/19/2023. 22min

Parenting Solo: Finding Hope and Support

Single parenting without spousal support can be tough, but you can still have a thriving, deep relationship with your teen as you walk through life together. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd offer encouragement, practical tips and...

12/18/2023. 14min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Tough Talks

Those heart-to-heart talks that might feel like a challenge, are usually the glue that bonds parents and teens. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers pressing questions from parents about how to successfully navigate hard conversations. He...

12/15/2023. 20min

Addressing Teen Sexuality

Talking to our kids about sex can be uncomfortable and challenging, but as parents, it's crucial to understand our teens when it comes to sexuality, especially in today's culture. In this insightful episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss...

12/14/2023. 15min

Offering Certainty in a World of Doubt

Teens may like to act like nothing phases them, but for many of our kids, the turmoil and uncertainty of the world today really does weigh on them. In today's show, Mark reflects on the theme of uncertainty and its profound impact on teenagers. Using...

12/13/2023. 25min

Teen Stories: Calming the Storm

If you have an angry teen in your home, it can sometimes feel like trying to dodge a hurricane. But coming alongside them and helping them develop healthy ways to deal with their frustrations will benefit them for the rest of their lives. In this...

12/12/2023. 18min

Understanding Destructive Parenting Behaviors

Are you noticing destructive patterns in your relationship with your teen? Our own habits have a big impact on our kids — but it's never too late to make positive changes. On today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore the types of...

12/11/2023. 15min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Where Do I Draw the Line?

Have you ever struggled to know where, or how, to put your foot down? In today's episode, Mark Gregston tackles questions from parents who are wrestling with setting some serious boundaries. From a daughter expecting parental funding for her and her...

12/8/2023. 20min

The Art of Letting Go

Parenting is tough, especially when it comes to giving teens the space they need to grow! It goes against our parental instincts to “back off,” but if we don't, we risk raising an adult who's not prepared to face the real world. In today's...

12/7/2023. 13min

Living Out Our Faith

The impact we have on our teens goes far beyond what we say. While it's crucial to have meaningful conversations about faith, it's equally important to live out our principles in our day-to-day lives. In today's episode, Mark Gregston shares a...

12/6/2023. 10min

Teen Stories: Seeking Acceptance

Many parents can probably look back on their own teen years and remember some crazy things they did in the name of fitting in or being liked. As much as things have changed, today's teens aren't much different. In this episode, Mark sits down with two...

12/5/2023. 18min

Rethinking Parenting in a Changing Culture

Are you struggling to navigate the challenges of parenting in today's chaotic world? In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd tackle the topic of traditional parenting — and why it no longer works. Letting go of trying to be a "perfect...

12/4/2023. 9min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Boundaries & Screen Time

We were created as relational beings with a desire to connect with others — and that's no different for teenagers. But how can you know your teens are learning how to properly engage with others in a digital world? In today's episode, Mark Gregston...

12/1/2023. 11min

The Anatomy of Anger

Are you struggling to understand your teen's anger? It seems like everywhere we look, we see young people expressing their angst through violence, disrespectful behavior and heated arguments. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd...

11/30/2023. 14min

Behind the Filter

Teens long to be validated, but today's social media environment often leaves them seeking that validation by comparing themselves to others. It's a vicious cycle that will never leave them fulfilled. In today's episode, Mark revisits some examples...

11/29/2023. 23min

Teen Stories: The Odd One Out

Some teens go through their high school years feeling like they never quite fit in or that other kids are able to do things that they can't. Eventually, that'll take a toll on anyone's self-esteem! In today's episode, Mark talks with two teens who've...

11/28/2023. 23min

Changing Along With Your Teens

When your kids are elementary school age, it's easy to get settled into a particular parenting style. But when the middle and high school years come along, your child is going to change — and you have to be open to changing along with them. In...

11/27/2023. 11min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Balancing Love and Limits

As parents, we have the responsibility to guide our teens toward adulthood with care and intention. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents grappling with the challenges and joys of that process. From video game and drug...

11/24/2023. 31min

Navigating Your Teen's Online Life

As technology becomes an integral part of our daily lives, it's crucial for parents to engage with and understand their teen's digital experiences. If you're struggling to navigate your kid's online life, you're not alone. In today’s episode, Mark...

11/23/2023. 14min

Connecting with Your Child's Heart

When your teen acts out, how do you react? Do you punish the behavior and move on? Or do you pause to find out what's going on in their heart? In today's episode, Mark talks about the importance of understanding your teen's behavior by looking beyond...

11/22/2023. 25min

Teen Stories: Caving Under Pressure

Most parents would probably agree that they wouldn't want to grow up in the culture our teens live in today. The social pressures they face and the constant barrage of social media can be overwhelming! In today's episode, Mark speaks with two more...

11/21/2023. 18min

Five Markers for a Meaningful Relationship with Your Teen

Nurturing a strong relationship with your teen takes intentionality, but sometimes it's tough to know where to begin. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the markers of a healthy relationship. They explore the importance of...

11/20/2023. 13min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Abandonment Issues

All behavior is goal oriented, so what’s motivating your teen? Oftentimes bad behavior is a means of protection. In this week's Q&A episode, Mark Gregston unravels the hidden thread that connects a granddaughter's rebellion, a son's isolation...

11/17/2023. 30min

When to Give Grace

Is your teenager pushing you away, leaving you feeling frustrated and helpless? When you’ve been shut out, grace can open the door! In this insightful episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into the powerful combination of consequences and...

11/16/2023. 15min

Creating a Place of Refuge for Teens

Grandparents, what do your grandkids feel when they first walk in your front door? Do they feel welcomed and safe? Or like they can't be themselves? In today's episode, Mark talks about how grandparents can create a place of rest for their teenage...

11/15/2023. 27min

Teen Stories: Numbing the Pain

Drug use in teens often starts because it seems like a way to relax, but often, they begin to rely on substances just to get through the day. For many, it becomes a way to silence inner turmoil. In today's show, Mark sits down with some Heartlight...

11/14/2023. 19min

Teen Drug Use: Signs, Signals and Solutions

It's easier for teens to get their hands on drugs than it ever has been, and the accessibility coupled with teens' natural curiosity often spells trouble. So, do you know what signs to look for that might point to drug use? In today's show, Mark...

11/13/2023. 13min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Conflicting Values

Your teenager is well aware of your beliefs; they don't need a constant reminder. What they do need is a strong, supportive relationship with you during this confusing time in their lives. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from...

11/10/2023. 29min

Embracing Failure

When you give teens the opportunity to make their own decisions, they WILL eventually fail, and that’s okay! Avoiding giving them control out of fear of failure will hinder their ability to learn how to cope with setbacks. In today's episode, Mark...

11/9/2023. 11min

Supporting Your Kids (and THEIR Kids) in Word and Deed

If you're a grandparent, you might have times when you're tempted to try to step in and parent your grandchildren, but in most cases, you can leave that to YOUR kids! Your role is to support them and be a source of wisdom and fun for your...

11/8/2023. 12min

Teen Stories: Running From Pain

When teens are carrying around a lot of hurt inside, they often look for any way to numb it or escape it — even if that means physically running away from home. In today's episode, Mark chats with two Heartlight teens, including one young lady whose...

11/7/2023. 18min

Looking for Love in the Wrong Places

Today's culture is more permissive of sexual activity in the teen years than ever before, and for many teens, this behavior may seem like an easy way to find the sense of connection they crave. This is why we, as parents, NEED to be aware of what's...

11/6/2023. 14min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Unlocking Real Conversations

We all share the universal desire for deep, genuine connections with our teenagers. In today's episode, Mark Gregston tackles questions from parents striving to balance maintaining that essential connection while providing much-needed guidance and...

11/3/2023. 17min

Punishment vs. Discipline

As our society moves from a fear-based parenting model to a relationally centered one, our methods need to adapt accordingly. Punishing out of anger, frustration or hurt is easy to do, but it won’t help your teen learn from their mistakes, and it...

11/2/2023. 13min

Looking in the Mirror

If you've ever experienced rejection from your teen, it can feel a lot like you've been "fired" as a parent. None of the baseball games or dance recitals you diligently took them to when they were little seem to matter anymore. But, as Mark discusses...

11/1/2023. 16min

Teen Stories: When Trust Is Broken

When a teen has broken your trust, it can be hard for parents to take that leap of faith again ... and our kids know this too. In today's episode, Mark talks to a couple of Heartlight students who are working on reconnecting with their parents and...

10/31/2023. 18min

Are You Willing to Reconcile?

Many of us fall into the habit of allowing the issues in our family to reach a breaking point before we address them. Sitting down and seeking reconciliation early is tough, but it can make your family stronger. In this episode, Mark Gregston and...

10/30/2023. 18min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Finding Balance in the Digital Age

The digital age has undeniably transformed our world, revolutionizing the way our children socialize, ushering in new norms, opportunities and possibilities — for better or worse. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston addresses questions from those...

10/27/2023. 28min

Recognizing and Responding to Suicidal Thoughts

In today's culture, self-harm and suicidal ideation are more prevalent among teenagers than ever before. As parents, being informed and prepared is a matter of life and death. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the telltale...

10/26/2023. 10min

The Blessing of Gray Hair...

Proverbs 16:31 tells us, "Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness." So, as you get older and watch your kids grow into teens and then into adults, don't worry about those grays that start to come in. As Mark shares...

10/25/2023. 23min

Teen Stories: Ready to Reconcile

For many of the teens that come to Heartlight, their stay at the boarding school is the longest they've been away from their parents — and that time apart can help all of them begin to see things more clearly. In today's show, Mark talks to two...

10/24/2023. 16min

Do You Ask Your Teen Good Questions?

Questions have an amazing way of stirring up things in your child's heart and helping them sort through what they believe about the world. They also help YOU get to know your teen better! In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd are...

10/23/2023. 13min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Turning the Tide

Addressing issues head-on while your child is still living at home is crucial given that unresolved problems during the teenage years can easily spill over into young adulthood. In today's episode, Mark Gregston shares valuable guidance for parents...

10/20/2023. 21min

Modifying Behavior vs. Solving Behavior

Parents are often quick to correct their teen’s bad behavior, but hesitant to uncover the motivations fueling it. Let's face it, if you're not getting to the heart of the matter, you're just slapping a band-aid on a much deeper wound. In today’s...

10/19/2023. 14min

The Mission Field of Family

When you think of going out to "the mission field," do you picture traveling somewhere far away? Oftentimes, there are important mission fields right in our own backyards — even in our own families. In today's episode, Mark shares a personal story...

10/18/2023. 10min

Teen Stories: Perils of Peer Pressure

Having close, meaningful friendships during the teen years is so important for kids' mental and emotional health — but unfortunately, finding those real friendships can sometimes be a rocky road. In today's episode, Mark Gregston talks with two...

10/17/2023. 19min

Do You Know When to Let It Go?

A key part of parenting well — for your child's sake AND yours — is knowing when to pick your battles. Nitpicking at everything your teen does or constantly trying to correct them will only drive them further from you and damage the relationship....

10/16/2023. 13min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Understanding the Why

Effective parenting goes beyond behavior management; it's all about uncovering the underlying motivations that drive your teen's actions. In today’s Q&A episode, Mark Gregston dives into real-world challenges submitted by concerned parents....

10/13/2023. 27min

Navigating the Pervasive Presence of Pornography

One of the most crucial conversations about modern parenting in the digital age is addressing the pervasive presence of pornography in our children's lives. The harsh truth is that no teen is safe from the influence of porn regardless of whether it is...

10/12/2023. 11min

The One Thing That Could Change Your Family...

If there was one thing you could do to foster a sense of value and belonging for every member of your family, you'd almost certainly jump at it! But this simple answer can actually be quite challenging: Just listen. In this episode, Mark explains why...

10/11/2023. 11min

Teen Stories: Facing Your Issues

When teens experience trauma, they oftentimes don't have the coping skills they need to work through it in a productive way. Trying to get rid of the hurt they feel can leave them spinning out of control. In this episode, Mark chats with two teens who...

10/10/2023. 18min

Protecting Our Teens From Pitfalls

Today's culture offers so many harmful temptations and pitfalls for our teens. Whether it's drugs, social media addiction or exposure to pornography, we need to try our best to protect and prepare them. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne...

10/9/2023. 16min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Provision vs. Enablement

As parents, we have the tendency to keep our kids from growing up, whether we realize it or not. To help our teens thrive, we must find the strength to let them hit 'rock bottom.' In today’s episode, Mark Gregston warns about the slippery slope from...

10/6/2023. 25min

Raising Kind Kids in a Cruel World

Do you remember your first bully's name? Most of us do. In a world defined by cruelty, centered around appearance and performance, bullying is inevitable. Social media has transformed this once black-and-white issue into something more inescapable. In...

10/5/2023. 14min

Confronting Unresolved Conflict

Holding on to resentment impacts many more people than just you — harboring unresolved conflict and negativity can impact your whole family for years to come. If this sounds familiar to you, it might be time to clear the air! In this episode, Mark...

10/4/2023. 12min

Teen Stories: No Regrets?

When teens get caught up in having fun or trying to fit in, there's a good chance they won't think through their decisions very well. But when the consequences of their actions finally catch up to them, how will they feel about their choices? In this...

10/3/2023. 19min

What Are the Values of Your Home?

When your kids come home from school, do they feel like they need to continue to keep up appearances in front of you? Or do they find a listening ear and respite from social pressures? In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about...

10/2/2023. 12min

I Mustache Mark a Question: When to Speak and When to Listen

When you find yourself choosing if the hill underneath your feet is worth dying on, make sure to consider whether it’s worth the risk of losing your relationship with your teen! In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents who...

9/29/2023. 30min

Overcoming Fear-Based Parenting

When does protection become overprotection? If you find yourself struggling against the urge to shield your child from every uncomfortable or potentially painful moment, you’re setting them up for failure! In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and...

9/28/2023. 13min

The Recipe for a Teen-Friendly Home

If your tastes change, chances are you don't keep ordering the same old thing at a restaurant and hope for the best. The same idea can be applied to having teens — the same parenting methods you used when they were little won't work anymore! In this...

9/27/2023. 13min

Teen Stories: What Drives Drug Use?

Substance abuse in teens can be driven by all kinds of sources: Shame, loss, a longing to fit in ... the list goes on! If your teen is getting involved with drug use or drinking, you need to seek the heart of the problem. In today's show, Mark sits...

9/26/2023. 19min

Expect the Unexpected

Kids are going to make a lot of mistakes during their teen years — and as parents, one of the best things you can do is find ways to laugh at these situations. Don't create more stress than you need to! In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne...

9/25/2023. 12min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Grow Up!

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents who are dealing with older teens refusing to step into adulthood. From issues like drugs and endless video games to unemployment and outright disrespect, Mark offers invaluable advice...

9/22/2023. 25min

Is Your Home a Safe Space for Your Teen?

Is your child finding comfort and solace in your house, or are they eager to escape? In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the importance of creating a welcoming atmosphere to prevent your teen from seeking solace elsewhere. They...

9/21/2023. 16min

Loving Them Through the Ups and Downs

Whether your teen seems to have it all together or their life is a total mess, they need to know that you love them no matter what. It's about who they are, not what they need to accomplish. In today's show, Mark shares an encouraging devotional to...

9/20/2023. 13min

Teen Stories: Starting a New Chapter

When a teen feels like their life is spiraling out of control, it can sometimes be hard for them to see any way things might get better. But no teen is ever a lost cause! In today's show, Mark sits down with two more Heartlight teens who share some of...

9/19/2023. 19min

What Are Practical Consequences for Teens?

The ways you disciplined your child when they were little simply won't work once they're middle school age and older. Now that they're capable of abstract thinking, you want to help them develop self-control and discernment — but what's the first...

9/18/2023. 16min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Words vs. Actions

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents who aren’t quite sure how to get through to their teen; from the challenges of the preteen phase to navigating the allure of video games and first relationships, how can you...

9/15/2023. 20min

Two Parents, Two Lives

While no one enters a marriage aiming for divorce, for many, separation becomes a harsh reality. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore the difficulty of co-parenting with a former partner when shared values no longer align, and...

9/14/2023. 11min

Is Your Bar Set Too High?

In performance-based relationships, people are valued because of their actions and accomplishments — NOT because of who they are. Many parents, even when they don't mean to, communicate this type of relationship to their teens. In today's episode,...

9/13/2023. 15min

Teen Stories: Battling for Independence

If you have a fiercely independent teen at home, you've probably gotten in a battle or two (or more) over who's in control. Finding the balance can be a real challenge! In today's show, Mark chats with two teens at Heartlight, including a young lady...

9/12/2023. 20min

Why Are Drugs and Alcohol Appealing to Teens?

By the 12th grade, about two-thirds of teens have tried alcohol, and around half of high schoolers have tried marijuana. What causes them to engage in this behavior? Is it just curiosity, or is it something deeper? In today's episode, Mark Gregston...

9/11/2023. 12min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Self-Reflection

When your family lands in a tough spot, are you humble enough to ask yourself if you might be part of the problem? In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from overwhelmed parents who are desperate for advice on dealing with a wide range...

9/8/2023. 31min

Shifting Your Parenting Mindset with Dr. Tim Clinton - Part 2

In the conclusion of Mark Gregston's discussion with Dr. Tim Clinton, co-host of Dr. James Dobson’s Family Talk, they delve into how crucial it is to seek your teen's heart — not just try to correct their behavior. It could make all the difference...

9/7/2023. 18min

Talking With Teens: Dialogues Vs. Monologues

Have you gotten into the habit of always repeating things to your teen? If so, it's probably time to hit the brakes. In today's episode, Mark explains why nagging and lecturing are some of the biggest relationship roadblocks, and can lead to your teen...

9/6/2023. 16min

Teen Stories: Growing Up in a Changing Culture

Whether it's technology, the accessibility of drugs or shifting social pressures, there's no doubt that today's teen culture has changed drastically over time. It's a tough world to grow up in! In today's show, Mark sits down with two young ladies at...

9/5/2023. 21min

Shifting Your Parenting Mindset with Dr. Tim Clinton - Part 1

In the first part of this special episode, Mark Gregston sits down with Dr. Tim Clinton, co-host of Dr. James Dobson’s Family Talk, to discuss some of the biggest challenges facing parents today. They talk about why spending quality time with your...

9/4/2023. 22min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Well-Rounded Teens

Join Mark Gregston in today's episode as he addresses pressing questions from parents, offering invaluable advice on supporting their teens' growth, bridging generational gaps and effectively managing disagreements. From navigating the complexities of...

9/1/2023. 26min

How to Deal With Childish Teens

It's increasingly obvious that today's teenagers seem to be taking longer to mature into adulthood, but is it their fault, or are we, as parents, playing a role in this delay? In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the...

8/31/2023. 14min

Is Your Teen Trying to Fill a Void?

The full impact of loss in a teen's life is only truly experienced when they realize something is missing — whether that something is a parent or a spot on the football team. Loss motivates behavior, and some teens will do whatever they think is...

8/30/2023. 17min

Teen Stories: Learning From the Journey

A big part of adolescence is developing the skills to think more abstractly and reflect upon the choices you make. Teens often begin to understand why hurts from their childhood are still impacting them — but how they choose to deal with it now is...

8/29/2023. 25min

When Kids Break Your Trust

Teens WILL violate your trust and push the boundaries you've set for them, but here's the encouraging thing: They will also usually learn from their mistakes. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the importance of...

8/28/2023. 18min

I Mustache Mark a Question: The Journey to Adulthood

Guiding our older teens toward independence, while rewarding, is a challenge. In this week’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents who are having difficulty navigating the new terrain that comes with facilitating the transition of a...

8/25/2023. 30min

Wisdom vs. Information

Our teens live in the age of information, and are downright overwhelmed by it! In a sea of opinions, our kids need wisdom as a steadfast anchor — but what if they won’t listen to us? In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss...

8/24/2023. 13min

Loss Isn't Always Visible

Some losses in our teens' lives are obvious, like the death of a parent, a best friend moving away or their family splitting up. But some aren't so obvious. In today's episode, Mark shares why you need to enter into your child's world and look for the...

8/23/2023. 12min

Teen Stories: Grief's Impact on Behavior

When a parent passes away, everyone in the family is impacted — but it's often hard for each to see beyond their own grief. For teens in this situation, they may withdraw, causing rifts in relationships. In this episode, Mark sits down with two more...

8/22/2023. 19min

The Three Most Important Things in the Teen Years

How you cultivate a relationship with your child in their teen years will likely also define the relationship you have with them as adults. But what are the most important things to focus on? In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive...

8/21/2023. 15min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Specks and Planks

In today's episode, Mark Gregston delves into the transformative power of self-reflection in parenting. If you're yearning for a change in your family dynamics, the first step is looking inward. From nagging less to listening more, Mark addresses...

8/18/2023. 31min

The Relationship Factor

The underlying problem of most behavioral issues in teens is a weak relationship with their parents. If we are too busy for our kids, they will fill the void we create with everyone and everything else. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne...

8/17/2023. 13min

Does Time Truly Heal All Wounds?

When people suffer trauma, abuse or cruel words in their childhood, it can leave a permanent sense of loss in their lives. Sometimes, they may not even realize how deeply pain from their formative years has affected them until it's addressed. In this...

8/16/2023. 17min

Teen Stories: Why Real Relationships Matter

Whether it's with their parents or with friends, teens need genuine, deep relationships in their lives. Unfortunately, the culture we live in can make fostering those connections really tough. In today's show, Mark talks with two more Heartlight teens...

8/15/2023. 19min

12 Ways to Shift Your Parenting Style

If you want to move from a teaching model to a training model in your parenting, there are some essential shifts you'll need to make. Continuing to treat your child the same way you did when they were little simply will not work when you have a teen!...

8/14/2023. 12min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Navigating Intervention

Join Mark Gregston in this week's episode as he addresses crucial questions from parents about knowing when and when not to intervene in their teen's life. From lying and bullying to disrespect and sarcasm, gain expert advice on when to shield with...

8/11/2023. 26min

Surviving the Age of Anxiety

In today's fast-paced and uncertain world, teen anxiety has become a growing concern affecting more than 1 in 20 children between the ages of 6-17. As parents and caregivers, we must recognize the seriousness of this issue and move away from the...

8/10/2023. 15min

What's the Real Reason for Your Child's Anger?

Anger in teens can come from feeling judged, shamed or ultimately, not getting something they wanted. However, many parents simply address the surface issues when it comes to their teen's anger and never get to the heart issues behind it. In this...

8/9/2023. 17min

Teen Stories: Temporary Escapes

Many teens who struggle with mental illness try to escape the depression or anxiety they feel every day by turning to drugs, bad relationships or isolation. They typically end up in a worse place than where they started. In today's episode, Mark talks...

8/8/2023. 17min

Fighting Selfishness in Our Teens (and Ourselves)

The "me first" attitude is all around us in culture, and our teens are affected by it perhaps more than any other group. In order to combat teen selfishness, parents should first reflect on how they can model godly selflessness better to their teens...

8/7/2023. 15min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Encouraging Independence

In this week’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents who want to know how to best motivate and support their teens across the finish line of adolescence and into adulthood. From mental health struggles to downright immaturity, Mark...

8/4/2023. 26min

Out With the Old, In With the New

We have the tendency to parent the way that we were parented, but today’s culture has its own unique challenges that cannot be faced with an old school mindset! As kids increasingly question the relevance of what they're taught, modified approaches...

8/3/2023. 16min

Little Conversations Make a Big Difference

If you want to one day have critical, important conversations with your teen, you need to invest time in the little, inconsequential chats now. Showing your teen that you will make time for them, no matter what it's about, will help build crucial...

8/2/2023. 16min

Teen Stories: Losing Control

Most teens want to be in control of their own lives, but when they try to take the reins by force, it can lead to ongoing conflict with their families ... and things end up more out of control than ever. In this week's interview with Heartlight teens,...

8/1/2023. 17min

How to Discipline With Kindness

It's obvious the types of discipline many parents experienced when they were growing up do NOT work on teens today. So, what does? In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss why it's still important to discipline your kids, but in order...

7/31/2023. 11min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Finding the Middle Ground

Over involved parents run the risk of losing their teens, but under involved parents risk having to watch their teens lose themselves. In this week’s episode, Mark Gregston addresses questions from parents on how to handle all sorts of conflict,...

7/28/2023. 30min

The Path Home

When our teens veer off course and struggle to find their way back, it is our responsibility as parents to guide them home. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore the delicate balance of providing grace and support without...

7/27/2023. 11min

Parents, Do You Reflect or Deflect?

If you want to have a stronger relationship with your teen, the first step is reflecting on the one person whose actions you can truly control: yourself. In this episode, Mark explains that many parents struggle in their relationships with their teens...

7/26/2023. 18min

Teen Stories: The Burden of Loss

Loss can take many forms, and impact teens in many different ways. Oftentimes, the pain they carry inside can shape their everyday behavior. In today's interview with Heartlight teens, Mark talks with two high schoolers who unpack how their heavy...

7/25/2023. 19min

Diffusing an Anger Explosion

When conflict gets out of control at home, do you know how to de-escalate the situation? Or do you and your teen find yourselves stuck in a shouting match? In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss why letting anger — whether your...

7/24/2023. 13min

I Mustache Mark a Question: The Why

All behavior is goal-oriented ... the key to getting through to your teen is understanding what motivates their poor choices. In this week’s episode, Mark Gregston addresses questions sent in by parents puzzled by their children's drug use, anger...

7/21/2023. 29min

Do Teens Deserve Privacy?

Parenting in the digital age comes with its own set of challenges, one of the biggest concerns being teenage privacy. How are you to find the balance between your legitimate fears and the necessity of extending trust? In today’s episode, Mark...

7/20/2023. 13min

Look Behind Your Teen's Anger

If your teen throws a fit whenever you ask them to come home at curfew or to dress more appropriately, it can be incredibly frustrating. But do you ever pause to find the "why" behind your teen's anger? In this episode, Mark shares some common reasons...

7/19/2023. 17min

Teen Stories: The Bumpy Road to Healing

When teens live in a house where there's a lot of conflict, wanting to get away from it comes as a pretty natural response. Whether that's through sneaking out at night or numbing the pain with drugs, the teen AND their parents need to work together...

7/18/2023. 19min

Defining Privileges and Expectations

When it comes to creating expectations for a teen's behavior, being too strict OR giving too much leeway can both backfire. So, how do you find the balance in the middle? In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss what it looks like to...

7/17/2023. 13min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Family Dynamics

Parenting takes on a new level of complexity when traditional family structures are disrupted. Disruptions can occur due to things like divorce, the loss of a loved one or the responsibility falling on grandparents. In this week’s episode, Mark...

7/14/2023. 31min

Portrait of a Sheltered Teen

Any good parent wants the best for their child, but beware: Overprotection leads to under-preparedness. If your kid is hidden away, they will never experience the necessary “iron sharpening iron” interactions with their peers that are crucial for...

7/13/2023. 14min

Are You Building a Relationship That Lasts?

It's great if you can get your teen to keep their room clean or always turn in their homework on time ... but at the end of the day, that's not what builds a close relationship. Do you invest enough time into bonding with your child? Or are you more...

7/12/2023. 19min

Teen Stories: Taking Responsibility

When teens are acting out of hurt or desperation, they may try to cope by deflecting responsibility for poor choices onto anyone but themselves. But eventually, reality is bound to set in. In today's interview with teens, Mark talks to two Heartlight...

7/11/2023. 24min

An Appearance-Driven World

The social media world where many of our teens spend their time is primarily focused on appearances — not real connections. Kids will do almost anything to feel seen, even if that means who they are online doesn't match who they are in real life. In...

7/10/2023. 10min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Foolishness

You are just as much tied to the hardships brought on by your child as they are. As a parent, it’s your job to develop your teen's foolishness into wisdom. In this week’s episode, Mark Gregston offers a wide variety of strategies for communicating...

7/7/2023. 30min

Out With the Old, in With the New

As kids mature, their needs evolve, calling for different parenting styles. If you don’t adapt your approach in order to meet your teen where they are, you run the risk of losing them forever. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd...

7/6/2023. 19min

Why Teens Need Your Wisdom More Than Ever

Our teens walk around all day with access to any information they could possibly want in the palm of their hands. However, they need WISDOM to know what to do with it — and that's where parents come in. In today's devotional episode, Mark discusses...

7/5/2023. 23min

Teen Stories: Numbing Grief

When you're walking through a season of grief or healing from trauma, being alone can be incredibly hard — and for many teens, numbing their pain with substances seems like the only option left. In today's show, Mark sits down with two Heartlight...

7/4/2023. 18min

Approaching Internet Safety With Wisdom

The digital world our teens live in continues to change and develop every single day, and while it offers great ways for kids to communicate with their friends, it's also something parents should take very seriously. In this episode, Mark Gregston and...

7/3/2023. 15min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Imperfect Role Models

As children become teenagers, their thinking switches from concrete to abstract. While exploring the world they come to find that it’s not as perfect as they previously thought it was, which stirs up insecurity, anger and confusion. In today’s...

6/30/2023. 27min

Constructive Correction

It’s not IF your teen makes a mistake, but rather a matter of WHEN. How we, as parents, choose to respond in those moments significantly impacts our relationship with our kids. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore practical ways...

6/29/2023. 17min

It's Time to Start Trusting

Trusting teens is tough — but if you want your child to learn how to make wise decisions on their own, you have to start transferring control to them. They won't do everything perfectly, but that's part of preparing for adulthood. In this...

6/28/2023. 22min

Teen Stories: Why Can't We Just Get Along?

If you have a teenager, you're bound to get into arguments with them from time to time — it happens! But when the conflict turns into an ongoing pattern, it puts a strain on everyone involved, and it might be time to seek some outside help. In...

6/27/2023. 20min

Teens and Dating: Overcontrolling Guys

Teenage dating relationships come with a fair share of ups and downs, but as a parent, it's important for you to know when to step in if things are truly outside the norm. One such case is if your daughter is dating a guy who wants to control her...

6/26/2023. 13min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Building Bridges

No man is an island — but what about teens? In this episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents who want to know how to go about building bridges that reach their isolated kids. Through developing the skill of listening, learning which...

6/23/2023. 15min

Now What? — When All Tactics Have Failed

Have you ever found yourself knee-deep in parenting books and podcasts only to have your best efforts fall flat? When it seems like all attempts to train up your teen are failing, what else is there to do? In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne...

6/22/2023. 15min

Recovering From Perfectionism

Many parents spend their child's younger years telling them everything they're doing right but spend their teen years telling them everything they're doing wrong. This correction may come from the best intentions, but for teens, it may feel like...

6/21/2023. 24min

Teen Stories: Making the Most of It

Some teens arrive at Heartlight feeling prepared and knowing what to expect, while others didn't know they were coming to the boarding school until hours before they arrived. The transition holds its challenges, but many of these teens find value and...

6/20/2023. 19min

Are You Missing Opportunities With Your Teen?

Life can be full of obligations and packed schedules — we've all been there! But in our busyness, parents can often miss the best opportunities to connect with their kids and make a lasting positive impact. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and...

6/19/2023. 11min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Freedom and Consequences

In this episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents who are seeking out the cure for disrespectful and immature teens. From letting natural consequences take their course to being brave enough to let your kid go, Mark provides insightful...

6/16/2023. 25min

Understanding Self-Harm in Teens

The unfortunate reality of self-harm is that it is becoming increasingly prevalent in our culture today. From relieving stress and depression to creating excitement and fitting in, this destructive behavior is just a symptom, albeit a dangerous one....

6/15/2023. 13min

How Pain Changes Us

Whether you've stubbed your toe or had your heart broken, pain changes you — short term AND long term. So, when your teen is acting out or begins to hate things they once loved, it might be time to look at what pain could be behind that behavior. In...

6/14/2023. 20min

Teen Stories: How Far We've Come

When teens first arrive at Heartlight, many of them struggle with anger, frustration or take the "fake it 'til you make it" approach to the program. But as time passes, these same kids begin to learn valuable things about themselves and find healing...

6/13/2023. 21min

Six Ways to Raise Independent Adolescents

Your child will only grow and mature into independence if you encourage and enable them to do it. They've got to flex those decision-making muscles! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd are sharing specific ways you can help your teen...

6/12/2023. 14min

I Mustache Mark a Question: The Right Path

In today's episode, join Mark Gregston as he tackles the pressing concerns of parents seeking guidance on how to guide their teenagers in the right direction. From addressing the delicate balance between screen time and fostering genuine connections...

6/9/2023. 37min

Hopeless Teens and Suicide

It’s time to shine a light on the alarming trend of hopelessness among teenagers and the heartbreaking reality of suicide. Kids today live in an increasingly fragile social ecosystem where one word from their peers can make or break them. In...

6/8/2023. 12min

Sharing Wisdom With Your Kids

One of the biggest challenges you will likely face as a parent is figuring out how to pass down wisdom to your teens in a way that is applicable to today's culture. It's no easy task, but your teens will be grateful for it one day. In this episode,...

6/7/2023. 28min

Teen Stories: Fighting Alone

Have you ever felt isolated or misunderstood? It's a lonely place to be. And for some teens in this position, the only thing they know to do is isolate themselves even further. In today's show, Mark Gregston chats with two teens at Heartlight who...

6/6/2023. 20min

Do You Have a Selfish Teen?

We have a selfishness epidemic among our teens, and, unfortunately, parents probably play a role in it. If you're not careful, provision can quickly move to enabling your teen — which can lead to a selfish and entitled young adult. In this episode,...

6/5/2023. 15min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Parental Intervention

Join Mark Gregston in this episode as he tackles the challenges faced by parents when it comes to determining their level of involvement in their teenager's life. From navigating issues of disrespect, anger and complicated relationships, Mark provides...

6/2/2023. 25min

Why Is My Teen So Angry?

The adolescent years are characterized by rapid changes, emotional upheavals and a quest for independence. As parents, we find ourselves grappling with the challenging task of understanding and effectively addressing our teenager's anger. In today’s...

6/1/2023. 15min

Why Mentorship Matters

Your words can have a profound influence on the impressionable minds of adolescents and young adults. In this episode, Mark reshares his devotional highlighting the lasting impact of positive and negative comments on his life. He discusses invaluable...

5/31/2023. 15min

Conflict Resolution

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how you can diffuse angry conflict and resolve the tension in your home. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/21/2022. 13min

Teen Stories: Trying to Escape Our Problems

Whether it's drugs, video games or social media, teens often get engulfed in things they see as an escape from the problems of everyday life. But what happens when they inevitably realize escapism has gotten them nowhere? In today's interview with...

5/30/2023. 19min

Let's Talk Video Games

Many teens are crazy about video games, and that's not always a bad thing, but it's important for parents to uphold some rules and expectations around gaming time. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss WHY kids love this...

5/29/2023. 16min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Teen Autonomy

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents who are aiming to foster independence, nurture faith and navigate the influence of friends. He delves into the importance of allowing teens to make their own choices while providing...

5/26/2023. 25min

Is There Still Hope for My Kid?

The majority of people overestimate the effects of their parenting and underestimate the influence of the culture. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive deep into the challenges parents face in a rapidly changing world. Join them...

5/25/2023. 15min

Raising a Responsible Teen

The high school years are important for many reasons, but a huge one is that this time is the primary season to be preparing your teen to be a responsible young adult. So, how do you find the balance of knowing when to be hands-off and when to help...

5/24/2023. 20min

Teen Stories: Finding Strength in Vulnerability

Many teens — and adults — struggle with opening up and sharing their hearts and struggles with others. Vulnerability can be scary, but very beneficial in healing. In today's show, Mark talks with two Heartlight high schoolers who've learned this...

5/23/2023. 19min

Becoming a Trainer — Not a Teacher

Teens today don't need their parents to just share more information with them — they have all the information they could need in the palm of their hand! What our teens DO need is wisdom. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss...

5/22/2023. 14min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Adult Kids

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston advises a parent questioning how to set boundaries with her son now that he’s 18. Which rules can become flexible and which rules must remain rigid? Tune in now to hear his guidance! Have a question for Mark?...

5/19/2023. 6min

Encouragement for Emotionally Drained Parents

Do you feel like you're constantly running on empty as the parent of a troubled teen? Join Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd on today’s episode as they share practical approaches on how to refuel your spirits and find renewed strength. From taking a...

5/18/2023. 12min

How Great Is Your Impact?

Adolescents and young adults soak up comments and info like a sponge, so never underestimate the power your words — positive OR negative — can hold. In this episode, Mark re-shares how the mentors who spoke positivity into his life and goals still...

5/17/2023. 17min

Teen Stories: A Cry for Help

If a teen gets to a point where they feel like their life doesn't have a clear purpose and no one is there to listen to them, they can arrive at a very dark place quite quickly. In today's show, Mark talks with two young ladies who struggled with...

5/16/2023. 23min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

4/15/2022. 22min

Five Ways to Connect With Your Teen Grandchildren

If you're a grandparent, maintaining a close relationship with your teen grandkids can be a truly wonderful thing — for you AND them! But sometimes, it's hard to know where to start when it comes to connecting to today's teens. In this episode, Mark...

5/15/2023. 11min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Effective Communication

Join Mark Gregston in this episode as he shares valuable insights on how parents can be present in their children's lives without being overbearing. He offers practical tips on how to engage in meaningful conversations with your teenager, fostering a...

5/12/2023. 18min

Building Character in Your Teen

Teens don’t just wake up one morning full of maturity, good character and strong values — it’s our job as parents to sow and cultivate those seeds in our kids. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss five practical ways...

5/11/2023. 14min

Are You Ready to Go Beyond the Small Talk?

Asking good questions has a special way of creating real connections between people — it shows you're genuinely interested in their lives. The same is true for your teen. If you want to go deeper in your conversations with them than just the same...

5/10/2023. 18min

Teen Stories: Kicking Addiction

Whether it's due to the impact of trauma or a battle with mental health, plenty of teens turn to drugs thinking they'll find a temporary escape from the pain in their lives ... but soon find themselves unable to get through life sober. In today's...

5/9/2023. 19min

Why You Need Clear Rules and Boundaries

Making sure your teen understands their role and what is — and is not — expected of them can help your entire home run smoother. Have you taken the time to sit down and hold a family meeting about rules and consequences recently? In today's show,...

5/8/2023. 14min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Restoring Trust

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents who are exhausted and downright hurt by their teen’s constant lying. He explains why you should expect your kids to break your trust, and to look at those instances as teaching...

5/5/2023. 18min

Navigating Privacy in the Digital Age

The internet isn’t just a way for your kid to reach out into the world, it’s also a way for the world to reach into your home. The need to monitor your teen’s phone activity is valid — but how are you to simultaneously grant them the privacy...

5/4/2023. 12min

Does Your Love Come With Conditions?

It's great to want and encourage your teen to perform well in school, work, sports and more, but if they fail, do they feel like they'll lose your love? Conveying your unconditional love to your teen is crucial to their wellbeing. In this episode,...

5/3/2023. 15min

Teen Stories: Behind a Happy Face

It's not uncommon for hurting teens to develop methods of masking their pain from others — which means that even the happiest and bubbliest kids may be hiding how they really feel. In this episode, Mark Gregston talks to some Heartlight teens,...

5/2/2023. 21min

Intentionality Is the Key to Grandparenting

The role of a grandparent in the life of a teen can be a very special one indeed — if they're willing to intentionally maintain the relationship. Remaining a relevant figure in a teenage grandchild's life is challenging, but not impossible! In...

5/1/2023. 15min

Q&A With Mark Gregston

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/10/2020. 14min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Screentime

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from mothers who want to know how to get their daughters off of their phones and out into the real world. He dives into the heart of screen time issues — connection. The desire of any teen’s...

4/28/2023. 11min

The Purpose of Pain

A parent’s role is not to eliminate the pain in their child’s life, but to prepare them for the real world. Teens will choose their inappropriate behavior over and over until the pain that results from their choice surpasses the pleasure that it...

4/27/2023. 15min

Helping Your Child Navigate a Negative Culture

There seems to be no end to the negativity in today's culture — teens are exposed to it through the news, their peers and social media every single day. So how can you, as a parent, teach them how to navigate this storm? In this special devotional,...

4/26/2023. 24min

Teen Stories: How Porn Impacts Young Minds

Because of the internet and social media, today's teens have easier access to pornography than ever before. But do they realize the negative impact watching explicit content has on how they view the world? In today's show, Mark Gregston sits down with...

4/25/2023. 23min

Battling the Busyness

In order to have a close relationship with your teen, you have to know what's going on in their world — and to do that, you need to make time for them! In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss when it's time to change your parenting...

4/24/2023. 15min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Growing Pains

No one is ever fully prepared to be a parent; just when you think you’re getting the hang of it, everything changes. Like it or not, you should be growing and changing right alongside your kid. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions...

4/21/2023. 24min

Why Doesn’t My Teen Listen to My Advice?

Part of our job as parents is to find a way to effectively pass our wisdom on to the next generation. In today’s world, however, kids have an overwhelming amount of access to content, making it hard for them to differentiate between information and...

4/20/2023. 14min

Through the Lens of Legacy

How do you want your kids to remember you? What about your grandchildren? It's important to keep in mind that the relationship you build with your teen today will also impact future generations. In today's episode, Mark Gregston shares why you should...

4/19/2023. 18min

Teen Stories: Understanding the Impact of Drugs

In the cases of many teens who get into drugs at a young age, hindsight is definitely 20/20. Looking back, they often regret doing drugs in the first place. In today's episode, Mark Gregston talks with two high schoolers who are examining how...

4/18/2023. 19min

Seven Ways to Argue Effectively

There's no doubt about it, most teens love to argue. But the good news is that there ARE ways to have these difficult discussions with your teens that result in a good outcome. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share seven ways to...

4/17/2023. 15min

I Mustache Mark a Question: When to Hold Your Tongue

Parents have spent their lives acquiring wisdom, and any good parent has the desire to share their valuable lessons with their kids — but is there such a thing as too much advice? In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents...

4/14/2023. 24min

Balancing Rules and Relationships

The purpose of rules and consequences is to guide teens to where they want to go and to keep them from where they don’t want to end up. They do not serve to bring peace to our lives, but rather to build up a child’s character. In today’s...

4/13/2023. 14min

What's Driving Your Child's Behavior?

Both good and bad behaviors always have motivations behind them, and as a parent, it's your job to try to understand what's driving your teen to do what they do. Simply punishing external inappropriate actions won't fix the issues in your child's...

4/12/2023. 26min

Teen Stories: Unexpected Connections

When many teens arrive at Heartlight, they're apprehensive about making new friends with other kids who come from very different backgrounds and locations. But these new friendships often grant them a fresh perspective on life and relationships. In...

4/11/2023. 20min

Teens Want to Be Prepared, Not Protected

When it comes down to it, you can't protect your teen from everything — as much as you might like to! In order to be ready for adulthood, teens need to be exposed to the challenges of culture and the real world. In this episode, Mark Gregston and...

4/10/2023. 14min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Age Appropriate Parenting

By the age of 16, teens are closer to independence than they are to dependence. Should the rules change as they get older? In today’s episode, Mark Gregston advises parents on how to loosen the reins over the years in order to create responsible and...

4/7/2023. 31min

What Teens Wish Their Parents Knew

Believe it or not, teens long for heart to heart conversations with their parents. Every kid has a message they desperately want to convey — they just don’t know how. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd review answers from teens...

4/6/2023. 12min

"Is This True Life?"

Much like a child questioning if a movie they love takes place in the real world, we need to look at our social media feeds and discern how much of it is actually "real." This is especially true for teenagers, who are bombarded by content from...

4/5/2023. 23min

Teen Stories: Feeling Like an Outcast

Many of our teens go through periods in life when they don't feel like they fit in with their peers. Usually, it's just a passing phase, but sometimes, they need you as a parent to help them when they're feeling lost. In today's show, Mark Gregston...

4/4/2023. 20min

Failure to Launch

Whether it's college, the military, trade school or working full-time, it's beneficial for both you and your teen to have a plan for what comes after high school. Otherwise, they might start feeling just a little bit TOO comfortable at home. In this...

4/3/2023. 19min

I Mustache Mark a Question: When to Seek Professional Help

While it can be hard to admit that your teen may need more help than you can offer, it is sometimes essential. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents of disrespectful, dishonest and depressed teens who want to know how to...

3/31/2023. 24min

The Foundation of Connection

If you’re not growing closer to your teen, you’re growing apart. Kids yearn to be seen, heard and known. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the impact of being quick to listen and slow to speak as a parent, and how...

3/30/2023. 14min

Connecting with Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss different ways to connect with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/3/2022. 13min

Normal and Abnormal Behavior: What's the Difference?

As a parent, sometimes you must accept that kids will be kids. Having a messy room, following odd trends or sleeping in late are all pretty normal teenage behaviors — but how do you know when things are actually getting out of hand? In this episode,...

3/29/2023. 11min

Teen Stories: On The Other Side of Addiction

Drugs are more accessible for teens than ever before. And when there's strife at home and kids start looking for relief, it can be easy for them to start down a dark path and end up in the throes of addiction. In today's episode, Mark Gregston sits...

3/28/2023. 24min

When Communicating Doesn't Create Connections

Thanks to technology and social media, teens are talking to each other more than ever before — but are they actually connecting more? In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about why the lack of face-to-face connection is driving...

3/27/2023. 14min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Bad Attitudes

We all have bad days, but what happens when disagreeable moods turn into toxic identities? In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents who are at a loss as to how they should reel in their kids’ lazy, stubborn, negative and...

3/24/2023. 30min

Is Lying Normal?

Prepare yourself — your teen will go behind your back. The parent who claims “not my kid” is in for an unpleasant surprise. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss ways to recognize your teens' lies, and how to handle them...

3/23/2023. 17min

Put Your Treasure Where Your Heart Is

If you've been waiting for "just the right time," to truly connect with your kids or grandkids ... that time is now! Begin building your legacy today. In this episode, Mark Gregston discusses why you should take advantage of the present and focus on...

3/22/2023. 19min

Teens and Grief: Picking Up the Pieces

When a parent passes away, everyone in the family is left to learn how to cope the best they can. Unfortunately, sometimes differing coping mechanisms can cause even more friction between a teen and their remaining parent. In today's show, Mark...

3/21/2023. 20min

Why Do Teens Like to Argue So Much?

A lot of teens seem to argue just for the sake of arguing, but oftentimes, there are some deeper issues going on under the surface. As a parent, you have the opportunity to teach your teens that they can express opinions WITHOUT turning the situation...

3/20/2023. 14min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Redirecting Influence

Influence is defined as the capacity to have an effect on the character, development or behavior of someone. As a parent, how do your actions and decisions shape the life of your teen? In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents...

3/17/2023. 29min

The Key to Successfully Raising a Teen

The responsibilities of a parent are arguably infinite, which raises the question: Is there a single component of parenting that should be prioritized above all others? In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd make a case for...

3/16/2023. 15min

How Well Do You Understand Your Teen's World?

Most parents would agree that they're grateful they're not growing up in today's teenage culture. Our teens are faced with information overload, shallow relationships, pressure from social media and so much more — and they desperately need your...

3/15/2023. 19min

When They Hit Bumps in the Road

While there is ALWAYS hope for struggling teens, they'll inevitably hit some bumps in the road while finding their way again. What matters is how they recover from stumbling. In this week's interview with Heartlight residents, one young lady shares...

3/14/2023. 21min

Modeling Forgiveness for Your Teens

Whether it's intentional or not, teens can sometimes be quite hurtful toward their parents. When your teen has hurt you, do you carry that resentment with you? Or do you show them the power of forgiveness? In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne...

3/13/2023. 15min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Refusing Therapy

In this episode, Mark Gregston answers the question of the week, which comes from a parent who is trying to get their teen to go to therapy. If help is viewed as a sign of weakness, many won’t reach out for it. Tune in to hear Mark’s advice!...

3/10/2023. 6min

Is Smoking Weed Normal?

In a culture where anxiety is high and teens crave connection, marijuana can seem like the perfect solution. If “everyone is doing it,” why would your teen want to be the exception? In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss...

3/9/2023. 11min

Good Parents Are Great Listeners

In the chaos of today's world, our teens are desperately looking for someone to truly listen to them. Mom or Dad, is that person you? Or do you often find yourself dismissing what your child says? In today's show, Mark Gregston shares his thoughts on...

3/8/2023. 22min

The Messy Side of Adoption

When kids get adopted, it's definitely not always a smooth transition — it's a massive adjustment for the entire family. In this episode, Mark Gregston sits down to chat with a couple of Heartlight teens, including a 16-year-old girl who was...

3/7/2023. 23min

Is Disrespect Derailing Your Home?

Disrespect has an extremely potent way of ruining relationships. If you have a disrespectful teen in your home, the situation needs to be dealt with — and quickly. In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to approach a child...

3/6/2023. 15min

Is It Worth Your Relationship?

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers the question of the week, which comes from the parent of a teen who smokes weed daily. Should parents focus their energy on demanding change or on maintaining a connection with their child? There are two...

3/3/2023. 5min

Broken Parents Raising Broken Teens

There’s no way around it — life is hard and none of us can avoid the pain and suffering of the human experience. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the importance of facing brokenness head on, the utility of affliction...

3/2/2023. 14min

Encouraging the Next Generation

Teens and young adults are like sponges, but, unfortunately, they often soak up more negativity than positivity. That's why it's crucial that you speak encouragement and truth into their lives — it could very well shape how they view the world! In...

3/1/2023. 15min

Teens and Depression: Stopping the Spiral

Depression in teens can often be caused by traumatic events or circumstances early in life that they couldn't fully process at the time. When they begin to struggle with their mental health, they often don't know where to turn, and a spiral ensues. In...

2/28/2023. 21min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/20/2022. 14min

Is the Relationship With Your Teen Top Priority?

Parents often get too focused on "winning," whether that's ending an argument or checking all of the parenting boxes they feel they're supposed to, and lose the relationship with their child in the process. In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne...

2/27/2023. 16min

How to Implement the Ideal Dating Model

How should parents approach their teens’ inevitable interest in the opposite sex, and ultimately romantic relationships? With the proper guidance and support, they can mature in the midst of developing this new and intimidating social intelligence....

2/24/2023. 5min

The Value of Admitting Our Struggles

The danger of creating and selling a perfect narrative to the world is that it becomes nearly impossible to communicate your problems to anyone. This dark path leads to hopelessness and isolation. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd...

2/23/2023. 19min

Is Judgment Driving Your Teen Away?

When teens feel judged by their parents, they'll quickly put up walls in the relationship and not receive any of the insight or instruction you're trying to share. So, how do you keep the relationship intact when your child is doing something you...

2/22/2023. 20min

When Teens Try to Run From Their Problems

Have you ever gotten in an argument with your teen and they've threatened to run away? It's usually an empty threat, but some teens feel it's the only way to escape their problems or conflicts. In today's episode, Mark Gregston sits down with two...

2/21/2023. 21min

Being the Best Grandparent You Can Be

Grandparents can have a powerful, unique role in the lives of their teen grandkids — IF they choose to actively pursue the relationship. You may have to shift the way you're involved in your grandchildren's lives if you want to stay connected! In...

2/20/2023. 13min

How to Deal With Loved Ones Invalidating Your Rules

Family and friends can bring so much encouragement, comfort and joy. However, they can also bring discouragement, contradiction and stress. What should you do when someone in your support system isn’t being … supportive? In today’s episode, Mark...

2/17/2023. 6min

Don't Miss THIS Cry for Help

When teens mess up, their first response will likely be to protect themselves from consequences. If you’re bent on justice ... you just might miss their cry for help. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how lying is often a...

2/16/2023. 11min

Grandparents, How Welcoming Is Your Home?

A grandparent's home can be a warm, almost magical place where a teen can find rest from the stresses of life ... or, it can be a place where kids are worried about being judged or making a mess. What kind of home do YOU have? In today's devotional,...

2/15/2023. 27min

What Are the Barriers to Good Relationships?

Do you long for a closer relationship with your teen? Closeness can be blocked by many factors, including busyness, lack of communication or even how discipline is implemented. In this week's interview with Heartlight teens, Mark Gregston talks to two...

2/14/2023. 23min

Guiding Your Teen Through Grief

Whether it's the loss of a grandparent, a broken relationship or the tragic death of a friend, loss can hit teens really hard. And if they aren't allowed or able to process their grief, it can continue to impact them years down the line. In today's...

2/13/2023. 17min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

2/11/2022. 20min

Helping Teens Self-Reflect

In this episode, Mark Gregston answers the question of the week, which comes from a parent who is trying to get their teenage daughter to recognize why her behavior is a problem. Kids don't always know the WHY behind their actions, so sometimes they...

2/10/2023. 5min

When Feelings of Failure Creep in...

Have you ever started to feel like a failure as a parent? When those worries start to pop up, it's easy to get overwhelmed — but don't be too hard on yourself! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss why some parents feel like...

2/9/2023. 16min

Are You Leading by Example?

The phrase, "Actions speak louder than words," may feel like a cliché, but when it comes to preparing teens for adulthood, it has never been more true. For teens to really learn how to make wise choices and engage well with others, you must show them...

2/8/2023. 10min

A Soft Heart Behind a Hard Shell

Teens who've walked through trauma at a young age respond in a variety of ways, but often, they'll create a tough, prickly outer persona to keep themselves from ever being hurt again. It takes patience to find it, but there's still a soft heart in...

2/7/2023. 22min

The Muddle in the Middle

As busy and activity-packed as most of our lives are, you may find that the best opportunities to connect with your teen pop up in the most mundane of moments. In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss why you should keep an eye out...

2/6/2023. 16min

When Your Child Is Living a Double Life

In today's episode, Mark Gregston answers the top parenting question of the week, which comes from a mom who just found out her daughter — who's usually a great student — smokes pot and abuses Adderall. Listen in for Mark's advice and...

2/3/2023. 4min

Training Boys to Be Men

If you're a parent to a teenage boy, you probably know that they're prone to taking some questionable risks, and oftentimes their need to prove themselves can get them in trouble. But underneath the bravado, they long to have a relationship with you....

2/2/2023. 16min

Making Time for Your Teen

How often do you make time to just sit down and talk to your teen? Is it only when they've done something wrong, or do you make it a point to hang out with them? In today's episode, Mark Gregston explains why you should schedule consistent time every...

2/1/2023. 25min

It's Not Too Late to Change the Story

When teens begin to feel trapped in a mess of their own making, they sometimes lack the perspective to see a way out. That's why it's SO important for parents to take any mention of suicidal thoughts seriously. In this episode, Mark Gregston talks to...

1/31/2023. 24min

Identifying the Pull of Culture

As parents, we do our best to instill godly morals and the ability to make wise choices into our teens, but there's no denying that today's adolescent culture is constantly pulling them in other directions. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne...

1/30/2023. 11min

Interpreting Your Child's Defense Mechanisms

In today's episode, Mark Gregston answers the top parenting question of the week, which comes from a father wondering why his adopted daughter is not affected by discipline. Mark shares his advice and explains why kids, especially ones who've been...

1/27/2023. 5min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

4/19/2022. 20min

When You've Been Fired By Your Teen...

When your teen rejects you or tells you they hate you, it can hurt deeply. But God can use even the most painful of moments for good — and after all, conflict is often a precursor for change! In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd...

1/26/2023. 20min

Don't Let Losses Become Generational

We know losses and pain can have a huge impact on teens' behavior ... but have you considered how the losses in your own life affect your parenting? In this episode, Mark Gregston shares why you need to be cautious not to transfer unresolved pain from...

1/25/2023. 17min

Rebuilding Relationships From the Ground Up

Many kids who arrive at Heartlight have a totally broken relationship with their parents, and it takes effort from the whole family to rebuild trust, communication and affection. In today's episode, Mark Gregston interviews two more Heartlight teens,...

1/24/2023. 19min

Are You Ready to Change How You Engage?

Parenting a teen in today's ever-changing culture means you have to be prepared to shift the way you communicate and engage with your child — otherwise, your wisdom may fall on deaf ears. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about...

1/23/2023. 13min

Setting Age-Appropriate Boundaries with Social Media

In today's episode, Mark Gregston addresses the top parenting topic of the week, which is how to help teens have healthy, age-appropriate boundaries surrounding social media use. As a parent, you have to find a balance between allowing your teen to...

1/20/2023. 11min

The Keys to Productive Confrontation

When your teen makes a mistake, do you jump immediately into dishing out discipline in the heat of anger? Or do you pause, take a breath and get the facts first? In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share the best ways to confront your...

1/19/2023. 19min

Do You Know the Losses in Your Teen's Life?

When your child is young, they tend to tell you when their favorite toy has broken or a friend has been mean to them — but when they become a teen and the losses get more serious, they may not tell you everything. In today's episode, Mark Gregston...

1/18/2023. 12min

Keeping Anger Under Control

Whether it's simple passive aggression or fits of rage, teens often express hurts or unresolved problems in their lives through anger. As a parent, you can help them find better ways to channel their frustrations — but only if you don't get caught...

1/17/2023. 22min

Hope in the Midst of Conflict

When you're quarreling with a teenager, it sometimes feels like the conflict will never end. But God can use ANY problem for good, so don't lose hope! In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share an encouraging discussion about how...

1/16/2023. 12min

Perspective Vs. Opinion: Know the Difference

In this episode, Mark Gregston answers the top question of the week, which comes from a parent who wonders how to properly share their perspective with their teen — not just their opinion. While opinions can come across as judgemental, perspective...

1/13/2023. 5min

Fight, Flight or Freeze

When teens are confronted with hurts or challenges in life that they're not prepared for, they typically react in one of three ways: Fight, flight or freeze. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss what each of these coping...

1/12/2023. 17min

Teen Pitfalls

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd give guidance to help you beware of key teen pitfalls. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/8/2021. 17min

How Loss Can Impact Behavior

Cruel words, abuse and trauma that occur in our adolescent years can impact us for our entire lifetimes — sometimes whether we're aware of it or not. In today's special devotional, Mark Gregston shares why it's important to really understand your...

1/11/2023. 17min

Smiles Don't Tell the Whole Story

Some of the teens who smile and laugh all the time are also the ones who are struggling the most on the inside. Behind the happy, bubbly exterior, these teens desperately hope someone will see what's going on in their hearts. In this episode, Mark...

1/10/2023. 23min

Keeping Your Parenting Priorities Straight

No matter what ups and downs you may encounter while raising your teen, your top priority should always be to build and maintain a healthy relationship that will last into adulthood. It's not easy, but it is worth it! In this episode, Mark Gregston...

1/9/2023. 12min

Balancing Video Game Time With Responsibility

In today's show, Mark Gregston answers the top parenting question of the week, which comes from a parent who wants to know how to enforce screen time limits when that's their child's way to relax. Video games, music and texting with friends may be a...

1/6/2023. 6min

How Do You Know When It's Time to Take Action?

If your teen has started acting out or behaving differently, it may be time to take serious action to prevent it from getting worse. But how can you know for sure? In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share a list of assessment questions...

1/5/2023. 16min

Your Teen Shouldn't Be Defined By Their Mistakes

Many kids who were brought up in Christian families and youth groups make a pledge to remain abstinent until marriage, and there are plenty who stick to this pledge — but also many teens who fail. In this episode, Mark Gregston explains that the...

1/4/2023. 13min

Finding Healing Away From Home

When kids start having issues early on in life, it can be hard for them to unravel their problems in the same environment they started in. Hard as it may be, sometimes being sent away to a program to find help is the best route. In this episode, Mark...

1/3/2023. 23min

Starting the New Year Off Right

Happy 2023! The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to reflect on how relationships grew — or grew apart — in your family, and assess changes you'd like to make in the new year! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share...

1/2/2023. 14min

Is Bribing a Teen Always a Bad Thing?

In today's episode, Mark Gregston addresses two of the top parenting questions of the week: One from a family who is concerned about their daughter's online activities and another from a parent who wants to know how to get a child to go to counseling....

12/30/2022. 3min

Conflict: It Has a Silver Lining

Have you ever seen conflict on the horizon with your teen and simply wanted to run the other way? Practically every parent knows this feeling! But conflict can provide some of the best teaching opportunities you'll experience with your teen. In...

12/29/2022. 14min

The Dangers of a Performance-Based Relationship

Many teens today feel like their parents' love is conditional, and whether or not it's actually true, they think their parents will stop loving them if they make too many mistakes. And often, the parents have no idea their teen feels this way! In this...

12/28/2022. 15min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

11/5/2021. 27min

Hiding the Problem Never Solves It

When teens are dealing with internal turmoil, they often try to hide their problems from their families — but they can only bury hurt for so long. In this episode, Mark Gregston sits down with two young ladies from Heartlight, one of whom is an only...

12/27/2022. 19min

What's Your Vision for Your Family?

Improving the dynamics of a family is never an instant makeover. But little changes over a long period of time can make all the difference! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share an encouraging message about why you should never give...

12/26/2022. 15min

Going Beyond the 'Yes' or 'No' Questions

In this episode, Mark Gregston answers the top parenting problem of the week, which is how to approach a teen who hates being asked questions. A great place to start is examining if you're asking the RIGHT questions — ones that will prompt a...

12/23/2022. 9min

How to Have a Peaceful Christmas With Your Teens

Let's face it, no matter how hard we may try as parents, Christmas with teenagers rarely ever looks like the beautiful Hallmark holiday we hope for. But you can still have a Christmas full of joy and peace no matter what! In this episode, Mark...

12/22/2022. 14min

It's Never Too Early to Think About Legacy

Whether you're a parent or grandparent, it's never too soon to begin considering the legacy you'll leave behind for your family when you're gone. And legacy is about so much more than just material items you'll hand down — it's about memories and...

12/21/2022. 18min

Teens and Depression: Behind the Mask

Some of the teens who struggle the most with their mental health are the ones who seem the happiest on the outside. That's why it's so important to be vigilant for the tiny warning signs that a child is struggling. In this episode, Mark chats with...

12/20/2022. 23min

Don't Grow Weary of Doing Good

When your teen is out of control, it can feel overwhelming for the entire family. But don't stop searching for answers! There is always hope to mend your relationship with your child. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share advice...

12/19/2022. 15min

Consequences Don't Have to Ruin the Relationship

In today's episode, Mark Gregston answers a question from some distraught parents whose son stole hundreds — possibly thousands — of dollars to spend on video games. In a situation like this, it's important to dig deeper and find out the WHY...

12/16/2022. 7min

Reaching Your Teen's Heart When They've Hurt Yours

Part of raising a teen is accepting that they will hurt you at times — whether it's by disobeying you, making poor decisions or choosing not to believe in the same things you do. But your teens need you to keep fighting for the relationship, even...

12/15/2022. 14min

Every Parent Has a Story to Tell

When your teen comes to you with questions about life, they're not looking for more facts and information, they're looking for REAL wisdom. Info can be found anywhere and shared by anyone, but as a parent, you have the ability to share insights your...

12/14/2022. 27min

Finding a Fresh Start

Kids seek out drugs for various reasons, but whether it's to cope with pain at home or to fit in with a group of friends, drug use can kickstart a slew of other problems. Teens often view drugs as an escape, but in reality, they're a pitfall that's...

12/13/2022. 26min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

8/20/2021. 23min

Are You Ready to Go From Lecturer to Coach?

Practically every parent would agree that they wouldn't want to grow up in the culture that today's teens live in. With social media and the neverending growth of technology, it's a totally different world! In today's discussion, Mark Gregston and...

12/12/2022. 13min

Not Every Mistake Requires Punishment

In today's episode, Mark Gregston answers the top parenting question of the week, which comes from a family whose 15-year-old recently confessed to their parents about drinking for the first time. In times like these, it's important to take into...

12/9/2022. 6min

Teens Are Smoking More Pot Than Ever — But Why?

As more states legalize the use of recreational marijuana, it's also, unfortunately, becoming increasingly accessible to teens. And for many kids, smoking pot isn't just about looking cool or fitting in, it's a way to self-medicate their anxiety. In...

12/8/2022. 14min

The Impact of Pain Shouldn't Be Ignored

When you're in pain, whether it's physical or emotional, it has a way of changing the way you interact with and respond to the outside world. Pain can cloud your judgment... and teenagers often struggle mightily with this! In today's devotional, Mark...

12/7/2022. 20min

When Teens Have to Own Up to Dishonesty

In today's episode, Mark Gregston sits down with two young ladies from Heartlight who both found themselves caught in a mess after lying to their parents about their activities. For 15-year-old Elizabeth, it was easier to lie to her adoptive parents...

12/6/2022. 19min

Eight Keys to Better Communication With Your Teen

In today's teen culture, it may seem like ALL of their communication takes place over texts, but don't lose hope. It's still possible to have meaningful discussions with your child — and they may enjoy it more than you think! In this episode, Mark...

12/5/2022. 11min

Asking the Right Questions at the Right Time

In today's episode, Mark Gregston answers the most pressing parenting question of the week, which is all about ... questions! Do you know how to effectively ask your teen questions that will get them to open up about what's going on in their heart? Or...

12/2/2022. 29min

Single Parents: Holding the Line

Being a single mom or dad is one of the toughest roles out there, and if your teen is acting out, it's easy to feel totally overwhelmed! That's why it's so important for single parents to hold tight to the standards they've set for their household and...

12/1/2022. 12min

Steer Clear of Nagging and Lecturing

If you constantly nag or lecture your teens, they probably feel like you don't trust them or you believe they're incompetent. This is one of the quickest ways to dissolve your relationship with your kids! In this episode, Mark Gregston shares his...

11/30/2022. 16min

Finding That "Lightbulb" Moment

In many cases, teens have to hit rock bottom before they realize they have to deal with the big issues in their lives, whether it's addiction, insecurity or anything in between. In today's episode, Mark Gregston sits down with a couple of Heartlight...

11/29/2022. 24min

"I Can Do This On My Own, Mom!"

When kids hit the middle of their teen years (or sometimes younger), you'll usually start to hear them say things like "I don't want your help," or "I wish I lived by myself." Often, parents interpret those statements as rude or rebellious — but...

11/28/2022. 17min

How Do You Support Your Teen During a Divorce?

In this episode, Mark Gregston shares his thoughts on the biggest parenting question of the week: How do you support a teen through the process of a high-conflict divorce? When parents split up, it can be really hard on a teenager, especially if they...

11/25/2022. 4min

No Matter What, Keep Speaking Wisdom

When your child becomes a teen, you can no longer make all their decisions for them — but you CAN ask them questions about what's going on in their heart and speak wisdom into their lives. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss...

11/24/2022. 11min

Be the Listening Ear Your Child Needs

Today's teens are DESPERATE for someone to listen to them — but all too often, their parents or grandparents shut them down with harsh or judgmental comments. Do you find yourself quickly telling your teen they're wrong when they talk to you? Or do...

11/23/2022. 20min

When Teens Can't Make Decisions With a Clear Head

In today's episode, Mark Gregston chats with a couple of Heartlight teens who both struggled with drug use and felt like their lives were totally off track. For one young lady, her substance abuse escalated to the point that she was caught with drugs...

11/22/2022. 19min

No Pain, No Change

For most kids, the first 12 or 13 years of their lives are relatively pain-free, but things change when they enter middle and high school. They begin to experience more real hardships and pain — sometimes as a consequence of their own choices! In...

11/21/2022. 14min

Stumbling Through Social Norms

In today's episode, Mark Gregston answers the top parenting question of the week, which comes from a couple who is trying to encourage their 13-year-old son to take on more responsibilities — especially when it comes to brushing his teeth without...

11/18/2022. 7min

Do You Lead a Grace-Based Home?

If your relationship with your teen consists of nothing but rules, chances are that your child will continue to pull away from you as they get older. However, combining proper consequences with GRACE toward your child can lead to a truly meaningful,...

11/17/2022. 11min

The Power of Practicing Introspection

No parent is perfect, and your past experiences with YOUR parents can have an impact on how you view the world and interact with your own kids. That's why it's so important to reflect on what lingering issues from your past might still be plaguing you...

11/16/2022. 16min

When One Bad Choice Becomes a Pattern

The vast majority of teenagers will experiment with alcohol at least once during their high school years, and this experimentation can quickly turn into a downward spiral of bad decisions. In this week's interview with Heartlight teens, one young lady...

11/15/2022. 21min

Keep Your Welcome Mat Out for Your Teens

As teens develop into adulthood, they'll inevitably take some wrong turns — and maybe get totally lost — along the way. If your teen makes poor choices and gets lost, don't write them off! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss...

11/14/2022. 15min

Kick Back and Relax (With Your Teen!)

In this episode, Mark Gregston answers the top parenting question of the week, which comes from a single mom who's trying to figure out how to create more enjoyable times with her son. One of the best ways to build a lasting relationship with your...

11/11/2022. 4min

Changing Your Teen's Heart Through Connection

Today's teens are constantly interacting with their friends through texting and social media, but that doesn't mean they are forming actual connections. In fact, many of our kids are lonely and desperate for real relationships! In this episode, Mark...

11/10/2022. 14min

Grandparents, Is Your Home a Safe Haven?

Teens face all kinds of physical, social and emotional pressures every day, and they NEED a safe place to decompress and feel understood. Grandparents, this is your time to shine! In this episode, Mark Gregston explains why you should work toward...

11/9/2022. 26min

From Addiction to a New Life

These days, teens have easier access to drugs than ever before, and MANY of them take advantage of opportunities to experiment. Unfortunately, this is often a fast road to addiction. In this episode, Mark Gregston chats with a couple more Heartlight...

11/8/2022. 26min

Don't Let a Troubled Teen Rule Your Home

When a teen is spiraling out of control, it impacts everyone else in the home — including their siblings. As parents, it's up to you to make sure that the struggling child doesn't take all of your attention away from your other kids or begin to...

11/7/2022. 15min

When an Only Child Has to Share Their Parents' Love

In today's episode, Mark Gregston answers the top parenting question of the week, which comes from a mom who is expecting a baby. However, her 14-year-old daughter is not too happy about the idea of a new sibling. Listen in for Mark's insights!...

11/4/2022. 3min

Discipline: You Need Rules AND Relationships

Disciplining your child once they become a teen certainly looks different than it did when they were little — it involves a lot more than simply telling them to go to their room! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss why you need...

11/3/2022. 17min

Wisdom Flows From Real Conversations

Can you think of a person, or maybe a group of people, who poured into you with wisdom and positive affirmations when you were younger? For teens and young adults, receiving encouragement from a mentor can mean a lot — especially since they live in...

11/2/2022. 14min

You Don't Have to 'Fake It 'Til You Make It'

In today's impactful episode, Mark Gregston sits down with two teens staying at Heartlight who both attempted suicide not long before arriving at the program. Both young ladies have walked through tremendous trauma and relational challenges, but...

11/1/2022. 22min

Don't Lose Sight of the Big Picture

If you have a teen that is spiraling out of control, it can be easy to feel like there is no hope. But God works all things together for good — even rebellious teens! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share why it's important to...

10/31/2022. 10min

When It's Time to Send Your Teen to Heartlight

The number one question parents ask Mark Gregston is, "How do I know when to send my teen away for help?" In this special episode, Mark addresses that question with 15 key things you need to evaluate about your teen to know if sending them to...

10/28/2022. 22min

Parents, Take Time for Yourself Too

When you're in the middle of a battle with your teen, the stress can take a huge toll on your mental and physical health. If you're married, this type of conflict can also easily drive a wedge between you and your spouse. In this episode, Mark...

10/27/2022. 15min

Is Your Child Stuck in 'Waithood'?

If you don't switch to a training model instead of a teaching model when your child becomes a teen, there's a chance they might hit the brakes on entering adulthood — and get stuck in "waithood." In this episode, Mark Gregston shares why you need to...

10/26/2022. 24min

When Teens Sweat the Small Stuff

Teens can sometimes struggle to see the big picture in life, and they get stuck worrying about the little things too much. In this week's interview with Heartlight teens, Mark Gregston chats with Sam, a young lady who was notorious for flying into...

10/25/2022. 19min

Do You Have a Narcissistic Teen Under Your Roof?

It's no secret that teens can be pretty self-centered, but when does normal teen vanity turn into narcissism? In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share some things to watch out for that indicate your teen might be slipping into...

10/24/2022. 17min

Loving Your Teens the Way They Need to Be Loved

Most of us have heard of the five love languages — but what if your teen doesn't fit neatly into one of those categories? If you try to limit the way you love your teen to just five love languages, you might miss their heart entirely! In today's...

10/21/2022. 21min

Why Are Teens Leaving the Church?

A big issue impacting the Church today is that the vast majority of teens stop attending after they graduate high school ... but why is that? In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into why teens feel disconnected from the Church...

10/20/2022. 10min

Real Connection Is Cultivated

One of the biggest challenges parents face today is how to share timeless wisdom with their teens WITHOUT seeming judgmental or disconnected from the culture that kids live in. Simply complaining about your teen's world will only create a blockage —...

10/19/2022. 24min

Teens and Trauma: It's Okay Not to Be Okay

In this episode, Mark Gregston chats with a couple of Heartlight teens — both of whom experienced deeply traumatic events early in life. For one young lady, who was raped at 15 years old, the journey to healing has been a long and rocky one. But as...

10/18/2022. 20min

How Do You Get Your Child to Respect Authority?

Today's teens view people in authority much differently than they used to. Instead of giving them respect, teens often view authority figures as untrustworthy — sometimes for good reasons. So how do you teach your teen to respect authority,...

10/17/2022. 18min

Top Tips for Teens with Anxiety

In this special episode, Mark Gregston answers a question from an insightful young lady who is trying to successfully navigate her teen years while dealing with anxiety. Mark shares some practical things teens (and parents) can do to help mitigate the...

10/14/2022. 21min

Are You Disengaged From Your Teen's Life?

When you and your teen are in the midst of conflict, or you don't understand something about their culture, it can be tempting to just pull away from them entirely. But your child needs you the most in those moments! In this episode, Mark Gregston and...

10/13/2022. 12min

Don't Lose Love in the Fight

When you and your teen disagree on something, whether it's politics, how they're dressing, who they want to date or anything in between, do you get lost in the argument? Or do you respond with love? Sometimes you need to remind your teen (and...

10/12/2022. 22min

Learning to Adjust as a Parent

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about learning to adjust as a parent. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

6/7/2021. 16min

Overcoming the Sting of Rejection

Teenagers are naturally driven to be social butterflies, but when being a people-pleaser backfires or they're totally rejected by their peers, coping with that pain can be challenging. In this week's interview with Heartlight teens, Mark Gregston sits...

10/11/2022. 20min

Why Forgiveness Needs to Prevail

One thing is certain about teenagers — they WILL make mistakes and hurt you from time to time. This is where forgiveness is your superpower! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how you can learn to let go of bitterness toward...

10/10/2022. 14min

Teens and Porn: Caught in the Act

This week's top listener question comes from a mom who caught her 16-year-old son watching pornography — a situation all-too-common for many parents of teenage boys. Mark Gregston shares some advice for how you can wisely talk with your son about...

10/7/2022. 7min

Parents, You're Allowed to Take a Break

If you're feeling tired and defeated from ongoing battles with your teen, it might be time for you to take a break! Whether that means going out of town for a weekend, or simply getting up earlier to have your coffee in peace, it's okay to take some...

10/6/2022. 12min

Are You Listening to Your Teen's Heart?

If there is one thing the majority of teens have in common, it's that they are desperate to be loved for WHO they are, not for what they do. So, Mom and Dad, does your teen feel loved unconditionally? Or do they feel like you have unmeetable...

10/5/2022. 13min

Breaking Down Barriers Between Dads and Teens

Teens can benefit enormously from having a close, genuine relationship with their dad, but sometimes — through any combo of life's challenges — it doesn't always work out that way. Dads and their teens then have to work TOGETHER to overcome those...

10/4/2022. 28min

When Teens Enter Self-Destruct Mode

Teens in today's culture engage in all kinds of self-destructive behaviors, from cutting to drinking to sexual promiscuity. So, as a parent, how can you help keep them from making these harmful choices — or help them recover if they already have? In...

10/3/2022. 12min

Learning to Love Your Adult Child's Future Spouse

When your child enters their young adult years, they'll more than likely start seeking out a serious relationship or future spouse — and you may very well butt heads with this new addition to the family. So, how should you handle this type of...

9/30/2022. 7min

The Modern Spiritual Prodigal

When your teen pulls away from — or outright rejects — the faith that you've raised them with, it can feel like you've done something wrong as a parent. But this is the most important time to trust in God that He will bring your teen back to a...

9/29/2022. 8min

Teens Are Crying Out for Real Wisdom

From the outside, today's teen culture looks crazy — practically every parent can agree on that! But it's important to remember that it's all your child knows and if you don't understand their culture and only offer criticisms, it will damage your...

9/28/2022. 20min

Coming Back from Rock Bottom

In this week's interview with Heartlight teens, Mark Gregston sits down to talk with a couple of teens who know exactly what it feels like to hit rock bottom — both physically and emotionally — and have to rebuild. For Blake, his wake-up call came...

9/27/2022. 19min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

6/4/2021. 23min

Teens and Drug Use: Don't Get Caught Off Guard

Out of the thousands of teens who have stayed at Heartlight, a large portion of them have been involved with some kind of drug use. A common factor? Most of their parents were caught completely off guard by their child's addiction. In this episode,...

9/26/2022. 30min

Enforcing Rules on Older Teens

In today's episode, Mark Gregston answers the parenting question of the week, which comes from a couple trying to figure out if they can still enforce a curfew on their 18-year-old son. For older teens, it's still essential for them to respect rules...

9/23/2022. 6min

You Weren't Created to Be a Doormat

As a parent, you have every right to establish boundaries to protect yourself AND your teen. Adolescents are self-centered by nature, and if you don't set up boundaries safeguarding your time and emotions, they'll walk all over you! In today's...

9/22/2022. 15min

Take the Pressure Off Yourself — And Your Kids!

Do you ever catch yourself worrying about if people view you as a good parent? You're not alone, but the good news is that you can take the pressure off yourself. If you try to be the "perfect parent," your teens might feel the ripple effects of that...

9/21/2022. 23min

What Issues Hide Behind Perfectionism?

Teens that struggle with perfectionism often start using harmful coping mechanisms to help relieve some of the pressure they put on themselves. But unfortunately, this can come back to bite them in even worse ways. Mark Gregston sits down to chat with...

9/20/2022. 22min

When Your Teen Says 'No' to Church

For plenty of families who go to church on a regular basis, there will come a day when your teen (or pre-teen) starts pushing back and doesn't want to attend anymore. So, should you force them? Or let them work it out on their own? In this episode,...

9/19/2022. 11min

Pinpointing the Proper Consequences

In today's episode, Mark Gregston answers a question from a distraught couple whose teenage son stole hundreds of dollars from them to spend on video games. Mark shares that while it's important to understand WHY video games draw teens in, it's...

9/16/2022. 7min

How Does Divorce Really Impact Kids?

In today's culture, the chances are pretty high that your family has been directly or indirectly impacted by divorce in some way — and many people say that kids are able to cope reasonably well when their parents split up. But is that really the...

9/15/2022. 16min

The First Step to Healing Your Family Is Acceptance

In this devotional, Mark Gregston shares stories from families who all had to accept the truth of their child's behavior or struggles in order to move forward. Of course, the truth may not always be fun to hear, but it's essential to the process of...

9/14/2022. 32min

The Toxic Side of Technology

In today's episode, Mark Gregston sits down with a couple of Heartlight teens and learns why their families sent them to the boarding school. For one 14-year-old girl, being bullied into sending explicit pictures over text sent her down a dark and...

9/13/2022. 20min

Teen Suicide: Know the Warning Signs

When teens feel completely hopeless and think they have nowhere left to turn, they might start to believe suicide is the only option to end their pain. This is when they need your love more than ever! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd...

9/12/2022. 16min

Getting Your Teen Out of Their Room and Into the World

In this episode, Mark Gregston answers a question from a listener whose 15-year-old daughter wants to spend most of her time alone playing on her phone. Does that sound familiar? Mark shares some practical steps you can take to help your teen get...

9/9/2022. 24min

When Should Teens Get Medical Treatment for Behavior?

If your teen has been diagnosed with a mental or behavioral disorder, it's normal if you feel apprehension about seeking medication for their issues — many parents do! But getting medical treatment for a disorder is sometimes the best thing you can...

9/8/2022. 17min

Quick to Listen, Slow to Speak

Anger can sometimes be an amazing motivator for teens, but it can also damage or destroy relationships if they get swept up in it. So, how should you respond when your teen flies into a fit of rage? In this episode, Mark Gregston explains that when a...

9/7/2022. 17min

Working Together to Reconcile

When teens come to Heartlight, the lessons they — and their parents — learn often change the dynamics of their whole family, but it takes effort on everyone's part to continue moving forward in a healthy way. In today's episode, Mark Gregston...

9/6/2022. 18min

Preparing Tweens for the Years Ahead

If you're the parent of a tween — a child between 9 and 12 years old — you've probably noticed they seem to act more and more like teenagers with each passing day. That's why it's SO important to stay engaged with them and begin to teach them how...

9/5/2022. 16min

Being a Pioneer Parent of the Digital Age

The immense amount of technology and information that teens have access to today presents new challenges for parents that prior generations never had to deal with. Put simply, how much screen time is too much? In this episode, Mark answers a question...

9/2/2022. 24min

How Strong is Your Bond With Your Teen?

Household rules, expectations and belief systems are all wonderful things to have — but if you don't cultivate a real relationship with your child, those rules won't do much good. Mark Gregston is joined by Wayne Shepherd to talk about why spending...

9/1/2022. 18min

Over-Responsible Parents Equal Irresponsible Kids

If you don't start to hand over the reins of responsibility to your kids as they enter their adolescent years, it can have lasting consequences as they enter their adult years. In today's devotional, Mark Gregston explains that overinvolved parents...

8/31/2022. 20min

When Blended Families Start Bickering

If you're a stepparent to a teenager, you probably know that your relationship with them comes with a unique set of challenges. In this week's interview, Mark Gregston sits down with a young lady who found herself at Heartlight because she and her...

8/30/2022. 25min

Giving Thanks in the Middle of a Storm

It can be hard to keep a positive outlook when you're walking through difficulty with your teen, but eventually, every storm comes to an end. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss why you should try to see the good in your child...

8/29/2022. 13min

Letting Your Children Speak for Themselves

If your child is shutting down and never wants to engage in conversations with you, there is almost always something going on behind the scenes. In this episode, Mark Gregston tackles a tough question sent in by a mom whose son hasn't been willing to...

8/26/2022. 9min

Birds of a Feather...

If you're like many parents, you can probably pinpoint which one of your teen's friends is "the bad kid." But have you ever wondered why your child is drawn to that friendship? In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how a teen's...

8/25/2022. 13min

The Power of Positive Affirmations

Comments people make to teens, especially negative or hurtful ones, can leave a lasting impact on their hearts for years to come. In this devotional, Mark Gregston recalls how he was personally impacted by naysayers — along with how he was uplifted...

8/24/2022. 16min

The Impact of Instability

Growing up in a family where houses and parental dynamics are constantly changing can definitely have an impact on kids — especially once they hit their teen years. In this episode, Mark Gregston interviews a couple more Heartlight teens, including...

8/23/2022. 18min

Mom and Dad, Become a United Front

Here's a painful truth: When teens start struggling, the first casualty is often the relationship between their parents. Not being on the same page about how to handle an out-of-control teen can cause a LOT of conflict and friction in practically any...

8/22/2022. 17min

Are You Teaching Your Teen Responsibility?

One of a parent's biggest challenges in today's culture is teaching their child how to use technology and social media responsibly, without it hindering their academics, job or other chores. So, what should your approach be? In this episode, Mark...

8/19/2022. 18min

The Dos and Don'ts of Discipline

As your child enters their teenage years, they begin to change a LOT — and so should your methods of discipline. Mark Gregston is joined by Wayne Shepherd to discuss how you can enforce household rules without sacrificing the relationship you've...

8/18/2022. 13min

No Family Is Immune to Struggle

In this special episode, Mark Gregston shares insights on why it is so important to seek out wise, biblical counsel when dealing with an out-of-control or struggling child. In addition to sharing his own personal story of family hardship, Mark...

8/17/2022. 32min

Overcoming the Obstacle of Abandonment

Every teen whose parents get divorced copes with the situation differently, but sometimes when mom and dad go their separate ways, it can leave the child with a sense of abandonment. In this episode, Mark Gregston chats with a few Heartlight teens,...

8/16/2022. 21min

Learning to Parent With Grace

When you think of "parenting with grace," what comes to mind? Is it the elimination of consequences for your teen's bad decisions? That shouldn't be the case! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explain that approaching a child with...

8/15/2022. 15min

How to Make Your Questions Count

Like most parents of teens, you might be familiar with your child answering "I don't know," when you try to ask them about their thoughts or even how their day went. So, how do you get past the wall of "I don't know?" In this episode, Mark Gregston...

8/12/2022. 12min

Love the Most When It's Deserved the Least

Most teens, at their core, just want to know there is no mistake they could make that would cause their parents to love them less. Mark Gregston is joined by Wayne Shepherd to discuss why it is SO important for you to communicate unconditional love to...

8/11/2022. 13min

The Challenges of Being a Single Parent

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss ways to handle the challenges of being a single parent. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/14/2022. 11min

Give Your Kids Permission to Be Imperfect

One of the fastest ways to damage your relationship with your teen is to constantly demand perfection or place unreasonable expectations on them — you may have great intentions, but it could leave your teen feeling as if they'll never be good...

8/10/2022. 23min

Can Change Be Sustainable?

On today's episode, Mark Gregston sits down with a couple of Heartlight teens, including Emily, who is just about to graduate from the residential counseling program. When Emily first arrived at Heartlight, she struggled deeply with depression,...

8/9/2022. 23min

Parents, Learn to Start Saying "No"

Doing everything for your children when they're little is totally acceptable — but when they become teens, continuing to attend to their every need will only enable their selfishness. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the...

8/8/2022. 17min

Pick Your Battles Wisely

Today's teens are living in a culture that is often vile and full of demeaning language, and not surprisingly, this is reflected in today's popular music. So if your teen is listening to music you don't approve of, should you put a stop to it? Is it a...

8/5/2022. 18min

Grandparents, What Do You Want to Be Known For?

If you're a grandparent — or will become one someday — you'll need to examine your relationship with your grandkids and what impression you are leaving upon their hearts. You have wisdom they desperately need, but if you are constantly nitpicking...

8/4/2022. 13min

The Key to Connection: Listen More, Talk Less

How well do you truly know your children? Do you spend time listening to them at the dinner table? Or is that time simply spent lecturing your teen? In this devotional, Mark Gregston shares the importance of sitting down and asking your teens genuine,...

8/3/2022. 17min

Helping Teens Work Through Grief

When teens push down deep wounds, such as grief and low self-worth, those repressed emotions will eventually explode — often in very unhealthy ways. In this episode, Mark Gregston chats with a couple of teens who are Heartlight residents, including...

8/2/2022. 22min

Making the Best of the School Year

As the back-to-school season rapidly approaches, your teen might be nervous about returning to the pressures of middle school or high school. So how can you, as a parent, help shift their gaze away from what could go wrong and focus on the positives...

8/1/2022. 15min

Figuring Out a Teen's Spiritual Love Language

So, your teen has declared they no longer want to go to church — what now?! In this episode, Mark Gregston sits down to answer some tough questions, including what a parent's response should be when their teen decides they don't believe in God or...

7/29/2022. 25min

Do You Have a Good Relationship With Your Teen?

Do you know how to tell if you have a good, healthy relationship with your teenager? Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share FIVE markers you can use to gauge how well you're connecting with your teen and where you could do better. A great starting...

7/28/2022. 13min

When Kids Are Blindsided by Culture

As kids enter their teen years, they get completely bombarded by information, gossip and negative messaging from media sources all around them. Unfortunately, as your teen's head spins with all the info, they can begin to view people as unworthy of...

7/27/2022. 19min

Adopted Teens: Struggling with Attachment

Adopted teens — and their parents — often have a unique set of challenges throughout the adolescent years as the teen explores questions about their birth parents. Mark sits down to chat with some Heartlight teens, including a 16-year-old boy who...

7/26/2022. 20min

Are Your Habits Getting Under Your Child's Skin?

No matter how well-intentioned they are, many parents have habits they may not even be aware of that drive their teens crazy and damage the relationship. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd go over some of the most common parenting...

7/25/2022. 16min

How Many Chances Is Too Many?

Most parents experience their teens breaking their trust. But what if you've given multiple chances and the behavior continues? On today's episode, Mark answers some of your most pressing questions on the topic of trust. Kids are going to break...

7/22/2022. 17min

The Importance of Being a Parent, Not a "Peerent"

Parents are engaging with their kids more than ever before, but when those same kids grow up thinking the world revolves around them, they're in for a rude awakening. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss what happens when you've...

7/21/2022. 12min

Can Your Kids Count On You?

As kids enter their teen years, they become increasingly aware of how uncertain the world can be. They are surrounded by news of wars, school shootings, natural disasters and other anxiety-inducing information — on top of the normal social pressures...

7/20/2022. 24min

We're All Here for a Reason

So many teens battle depression and other mental health issues, and as parents, it's extremely important to be able to identify cries for help when your teen is in a dark place. In this episode, Mark Gregston has conversations with both current and...

7/19/2022. 22min

The First Step Is a Second Chance

Can you remember when someone gave you a second chance after you made a mistake? In the harsh world we live in, your teens need that grace from you, too! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how you need to recognize that your...

7/18/2022. 11min

Setting Up Balanced House Rules

Creating a home environment with balanced, reasonable rewards and consequences can be crucial for your teen's growth into an independent adult — but it's not an easy process. In this episode, Mark Gregston answers more great questions from parents...

7/15/2022. 16min

Guilt and Shame: What's the Difference?

It's okay for teens to feel guilt when they do something they know is wrong — but when parents then approach them with shame-filled comments and criticisms, it can cause damage that lasts a lifetime. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd...

7/14/2022. 16min

Beginning Your Journey of Authenticity

Parenting teenagers is no walk in the park — especially when your child is going through a difficult phase and declaring they don't need you anymore. If you have unresolved hurts in your own heart, their behavior can leave you feeling lost and...

7/13/2022. 16min

Real Relationships Require Trust

Experiencing trauma and betrayal at a young age can leave a lasting, devastating impact on a teen's life, and sometimes they need a helping hand to lead them out of the darkness. Mark Gregston interviews two Heartlight teens who share their stories of...

7/12/2022. 22min

How to Raise an Independent Child

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to raise an independent child. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

6/3/2021. 17min

Is It Time to Measure Your Motives?

Practically every parent can think of things their child does that are bothersome, but are you spending too much time correcting — or worse — nagging your teen about the little things? In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share how...

7/11/2022. 17min

Are You Keeping the Door Open for Conversation?

Do you make a point to sit down with your teen at least once a week and simply spend some time with them? If not, it may be time to start! In this special episode, Mark Gregston shares a list of conversation starters for you to use with your teen in...

7/8/2022. 16min

Helping Your Teen Read the Road Signs

Mark Gregston is joined by Wayne Shepherd to discuss how parents should naturally fall into the role of being a moral compass for their kids as they navigate through their adolescent years. Teens can get lost pretty easily — and it's YOUR job as a...

7/7/2022. 11min

When the Going Gets Tough...

It can be very tempting to totally avoid conflict when there's tension between you and your teen, but it's usually better to confront the problem and walk alongside them in their struggles. In this episode, Mark explains that how you relate and...

7/6/2022. 17min

Turning a Teen's Life Around

When a teen's home life becomes full of pain and tension, sometimes they see no other way out of the situation other than suicide. But no teenager is beyond help. Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of teens living at Heartlight,...

7/5/2022. 20min

Be Prepared for Pitfalls

Today's generation of teens faces so many challenges and areas where they can stumble into behaviors that harm themselves or the people around them. It is VITAL for parents to be aware of these pitfalls and be ready to help their teens. In this...

7/4/2022. 17min

Are You Ready to Move From Teaching to Training?

Inevitably, when your child begins to move into their adolescent years, everything will change — and to keep a relationship with them, you have to be ready to change too. In this episode, Mark Gregston tackles some more great questions from parents,...

7/1/2022. 24min

Looking for Love in the Wrong Places

Today's culture has given teens permission to be more sexually involved than ever before — so how do you prepare to confront your child about this behavior or, better yet, prevent it from happening? Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd sit down to talk...

6/30/2022. 14min

A Parent's Greatest Challenge

In this devotional, Mark Gregston shares that moms, dads and grandparents have all accumulated something that teens desperately need in today's world: wisdom. However, the challenge lies in finding ways to truly connect with your teen and share that...

6/29/2022. 27min

Recovering from Bad Coping Mechanisms

Teens have more pressure on them today than ever before, and when that pressure is coupled with internal pain, betrayal or strained parental relationships, they often turn to substances to cope. In this episode, Mark Gregston speaks with a couple of...

6/28/2022. 20min

Dealing With an Entitled Teen

So many parents have good intentions and start freely giving money and material things to their children at a very young age. Unfortunately, this can create a monster: an entitled teen. Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd sit down to discuss some tips...

6/27/2022. 15min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit

6/2/2021. 24min

Growing Closer With Your Child

All of us want to feel like we have significance in life — and for teens, the search for their purpose can take them in a lot of different directions. In this episode, Mark answers some more questions from parents and caretakers, including one mom...

6/24/2022. 20min

Teens and Porn: Shaming Is the Wrong Approach

The easy accessibility of pornography in today's culture is something that has a widespread impact on both teen guys and girls, so how can parents be prepared to confront this topic? Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how shaming or guilting a...

6/23/2022. 10min

Getting to the Heart of Your Teen's Anger

As practically every parent of a teen knows, when your child doesn't get what they want, it can lead to angry outbursts. And if you lose your temper too, it creates the perfect storm. In this devotional, Mark Gregston explains the top three reasons...

6/22/2022. 17min

Taking a Break From Screens

We live in a digital age, and many teenagers today feel like they would really struggle if they didn't have their phones. In this episode, Mark Gregston speaks with some insightful Heartlight teens about their experiences at the boarding school,...

6/21/2022. 23min

Can Failure Be a Good Thing?

If you, as a parent, look at failure as something to be ashamed of, chances are your teens will too — but inevitably, they WILL take risks and make mistakes. So how should you handle it? Mark Gregston is joined by Wayne Shepherd to talk about how...

6/20/2022. 12min

Creating New Opportunities

As a parent, what should you do with a teenager who just wants to stay in her room all the time? Or what about when your child really wants to go to a different school than the one you had planned for him? In today's episode, Mark Gregston answers...

6/17/2022. 25min

Adoption: Staying the Course

Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd sit down to have a special discussion on the challenges parents experience when their adopted children become teenagers. Adopted kids often struggle with their sense of identity during their teen years, but if God...

6/16/2022. 17min

Moving From Teaching to Training

In today's digital world, we are under a constant bombardment of information — this is especially true for teens. In this week's devotional, Mark shares that when your child enters their teenage years, it's time for you as a parent to shift from...

6/15/2022. 22min

Are Your Kids Truly Being Heard?

Mark Gregston chats with two Heartlight teens who share their stories of turning to drugs and alcohol to mask pain they felt in their hearts. Both young ladies agreed that if they felt their parents would truly listen to them — without judgement —...

6/14/2022. 17min

For Teens, Image Is Everything

Does your teen act like a totally different person on social media than they do at home? This behavior is all too common. Mark Gregston is joined by Wayne Shepherd to discuss how the pressures of today's culture on the internet often push teens to...

6/13/2022. 19min

Getting to the Root of the Problem

Mark Gregston sits down to answer some questions from parents about the often challenging reality of raising teenagers in today's culture. This week, Mark tackles what a homeschooling mom should do when her son is acting out, how a Christian family...

6/10/2022. 22min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/13/2022. 16min

Finding Boundaries and Balance in the Digital World

Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd sit down to talk about different ways to handle and be engaged in your teen's online life. In order to parent well in today's culture and keep up with your teens, you need to commit to becoming a lifelong learner when...

6/9/2022. 13min

Stop Controlling, Start Trusting

In this special devotional, Mark Gregston shares advice for parents who are engaged in one of the most common struggles you can have with your teen: the battle for control. Teens want nothing more than to take control of their own lives, and while...

6/8/2022. 21min

The Hunt for Identity

When you're a teenager, figuring out who you are and shaping your identity can be a huge challenge and can often lead down some dark paths. Mark Gregston chats with two Heartlight teens whose quests to find out how they fit into this crazy world led...

6/7/2022. 23min

Teens and Drugs: What to Look Out For

As a parent, you always hope your teen will never turn to drugs or underage drinking — but the reality is the majority of high schoolers have tried alcohol and 50 percent have reported using marijuana, according to the CDC. Mark Gregston is joined...

6/6/2022. 12min

Can Screen Time Limitations Prevent Connectivity?

In this episode, Mark Gregston answers all your questions about screen time. He shares that the number of teens and pre-teens with cell phones has dramatically increased over the last several years and shares advice from David Murrow’s book,...

6/3/2022. 27min

Single Parents, God Has Not Forgotten You

Mark Gregston is joined by Wayne Shepherd to discuss advice for divorced parents with part-time custody arrangements. When your teen doesn't live with you all the time, it can be challenging to accept that there are certain things you cannot change...

6/2/2022. 11min

All Behavior Is Goal-Oriented

As a parent, one of the most important realizations you can come to with your teen is that every behavior you see is a direct result of hidden motivations. In this devotional, Mark Gregston teaches that you must learn to identify your child's hidden...

6/1/2022. 25min

The Battle for Control

It's no secret — sometimes teens try to take full control of their own lives too early and it doesn't turn out so well. In this episode, Mark Gregston chats with a couple of Heartlight teens who began sneaking out and doing drugs to control their...

5/31/2022. 19min

The Do's and Don'ts of Raising Teens

Do you remember what your mom and dad did that annoyed YOU when you were a teenager? Do you do any of those things to your kids today? In this episode, Mark Gregston chats with Wayne Shepherd about the importance of not overcorrecting your teens or...

5/30/2022. 14min

Consistency Is Key

In this episode, Mark Gregston answers questions submitted by concerned parents, including one family seeking advice on how to handle their teen son's battle with watching porn. While there are certainly practical steps to take to monitor a teen's...

5/27/2022. 17min

Keeping Your Teen Close While Letting Go

Wayne Shepherd joins Mark Gregston to discuss how parents can find a balance between keeping teens close relationally while slowly letting them have more freedom and control over their lives. Teens may fall short of your expectations while learning to...

5/26/2022. 13min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

3/4/2022. 23min

Bad Timing Can Ruin Good Intentions

You may have the best of intentions when you're trying to speak the truth into your kids' lives, but if your tone or timing is off, it can leave your teens feeling judged. Mark Gregston explains how teens often need to think out loud to process —...

5/25/2022. 18min

Learning to Open Up

Mark Gregston chats with a couple of Heartlight teens who are learning the powerful role that openness and vulnerability can play in healing deep wounds. Before coming to Heartlight, both young men struggled with the ups and downs of depression, but...

5/24/2022. 21min

When Good Parenting Yields Bad Results

There are plenty of good parents who do all the "right" things in raising their children — and yet are still caught by surprise when their teens begin to struggle and rebel. In this episode, Mark Gregston is joined by Wayne Shepherd to talk about...

5/23/2022. 11min

The Art of Talking to Teens

Do you ever go out to a fun dinner with your teen, but struggle to come up with things to talk about? Well, you're not alone! In this episode, Mark Gregston answers some questions submitted by parents and gives suggestions on how to spark a thoughtful...

5/20/2022. 14min

Helping Your Teen Spread Their Wings

Mark Gregston is joined by Wayne Shepherd to go over four ways you can help your teenager become independent. As a parent, you need to create an atmosphere your teen can mature in by inviting open conversations, and learn to listen to understand —...

5/19/2022. 14min

Encouraging the Next Generation

As you look back on your teenage and young adult years, can you picture the mentors that left a lasting, positive impact on you? In this episode, Mark Gregston reflects on the older friends that encouraged him to never give up on God's calling for his...

5/18/2022. 14min

Taking an Unexpected Path

Mark Gregston chats with two Heartlight teens, Gabe and Anna, who each reflect on how they found themselves in a world of trouble in the quest to fit in with their friends — but never expected to end up at a boarding school. Despite their initial...

5/17/2022. 19min

Keeping Up With the Kids

Teens are natural social butterflies and in today's culture, the majority of their communication is often through texting and social media. In this episode, Mark Gregston is joined by Wayne Shepherd to talk about how important it is for moms and dads...

5/16/2022. 18min

Perfection Is Not the Goal

Mark Gregston sits down to answer some questions submitted by parents and caretakers, including a single mom who wants to bring more fun into her relationship with her teenage son. Remember, nothing on this side of heaven is going to be perfect, so...

5/13/2022. 23min

Should Parents Be Internet Watchdogs?

Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how you as a parent should approach guiding and directing your kids when it comes to their activities on the internet. In an ever-changing online world, it's your responsibility to help keep your kids safe....

5/12/2022. 11min

Hey Mom and Dad, Stop Nagging

Do you find yourself repeating the same requests to your teen over and over? Well, you might be guilty of nagging. In this devotional, Mark Gregston shares why it's crucial for parents to stop nagging and lecturing their teens if they want to have a...

5/11/2022. 16min

Helping Our Teens Find Their Way Back

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when our teens get lost, and how we can help them find their way back home. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/18/2022. 11min

Stopping the Spiral of Addiction

Mark Gregston sits down with two teens who both struggled with drug addiction at a young age, but found clarity and sobriety through treatment at Heartlight. Drug use takes a huge toll on any family, but these stories of hope prove healing is possible...

5/10/2022. 18min

How Will Your Grandkids Remember You?

Mark Gregston is joined by Wayne Shepherd to discuss how grandparents can fulfill a special role in their teenage grandkids' lives that is unlike any other. If you show up, be attentive and listen, you can leave a lasting impression on your...

5/9/2022. 14min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

5/6/2022. 16min

Does Pain Have a Purpose?

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the purpose of pain in the life of your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

5/5/2022. 14min

Establishing a Relationship with Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston talks about how establishing a relationship with your teen is the most important thing you'll ever do. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

5/4/2022. 19min

Stories From Heartlight

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

5/3/2022. 20min

Does Traditional Parenting Still Work?

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about whether or not traditional parenting still works. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

5/2/2022. 10min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

4/29/2022. 21min

Conflict Resolution

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how you can diffuse angry conflict and resolve the tension in your home. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/28/2022. 14min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/27/2022. 17min

Stories From Heartlight

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

4/26/2022. 21min

Should You Be Saying "YES" More Often?

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd question if you might be saying NO to your teen, when you should be saying YES. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/25/2022. 11min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

4/22/2022. 23min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

4/12/2022. 21min

Independence Day

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about healthy ways to raise an independent child. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/11/2022. 17min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

4/8/2022. 23min

Dealing with Conflict

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk to parents about changing their perspective on teen conflict. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/7/2022. 13min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/6/2022. 10min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

4/5/2022. 20min

Teen Grief

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss dealing with teen grief. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/4/2022. 15min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

4/1/2022. 25min

Drugs, Alcohol and Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about handling your teen's involvement with drugs and alcohol. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/31/2022. 11min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/30/2022. 23min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

3/29/2022. 25min

Holding On to Hope

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to find and hold on to hope even in the middle of conflict. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/28/2022. 22min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

3/25/2022. 24min

Nothing But the Truth

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to handle a dishonest teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/24/2022. 10min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/23/2022. 27min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

3/22/2022. 24min

No More Tension

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd outline different ways you can release built up tension in your home. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/21/2022. 22min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

3/18/2022. 19min

Guiding Your Teen to Make Wise Choices

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd outline ways that parents can help their teens make wise choices. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/17/2022. 12min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/16/2022. 28min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

3/15/2022. 19min

What to Do When Your Teen Has a "Failure to Launch"

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when your teen doesn’t want to do anything. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/14/2022. 19min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

3/11/2022. 11min

Dealing with Mistakes

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to handle it when your teen makes mistakes. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/10/2022. 17min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/9/2022. 26min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

3/8/2022. 26min

Guys, Control and Your Daughter

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when a guy is trying to control the life of your teenage daughter. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/7/2022. 12min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/2/2022. 13min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

3/1/2022. 21min

Building a Dream Family in a Dream Home

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about different ways to build a dream family in a dream home. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/28/2022. 15min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

2/25/2022. 22min

How Does a Teen Handle Difficulty and Hardship?

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what options your teen might resort to when faced difficulty and hardship. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/24/2022. 17min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/23/2022. 21min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

2/22/2022. 21min

Is Teaching Abstinence Practical Anymore?

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the practicality of abstinence in our current culture. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/21/2022. 9min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

2/18/2022. 17min

When Communication Goes Bad

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to bounce back from a communication mistake with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/17/2022. 12min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/16/2022. 18min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

2/15/2022. 18min

Don't Let Silence Build a Wall Around Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when silence builds a wall around your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/14/2022. 17min

Communicating Value to Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about ways to let your teen know they are valued. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/10/2022. 18min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/9/2022. 20min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

2/8/2022. 19min

Healthy Teen Relationships

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to build a healthy relationship with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/7/2022. 12min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

2/4/2022. 25min

Dealing with Isolation

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to handle feelings of isolation and loneliness. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/3/2022. 17min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/2/2022. 20min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

2/1/2022. 23min

When Your Teen Self Destructs

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to handle destructive behaviors in your teen’s life. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/31/2022. 13min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

1/28/2022. 7min

When Your Teen Fires You

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to respond when your teen fires you. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/27/2022. 19min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/26/2022. 32min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

1/25/2022. 24min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

2/26/2021. 6min

Establishing Personal Boundaries

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to establish personal boundaries for both you (as a parent) AND your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/24/2022. 19min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

1/21/2022. 30min

What to Do When Nothing Is Working

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when it feels like nothing is working with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/20/2022. 15min

A Parent's Greatest Challenge

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional about a parent's greatest challenge. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/19/2022. 27min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

1/18/2022. 22min

Seize Your Opportunity!

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about not missing important opportunities with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/17/2022. 11min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

1/14/2022. 26min

What to Do, What Not to Do

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about things you should stop and start doing as a parent. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/13/2022. 19min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/12/2022. 16min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

1/11/2022. 21min

Keeping Your Teen Safe on the Internet

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about internet safety with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/10/2022. 15min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

1/7/2022. 26min

Dealing with a Spiritual Prodigal

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do with a spiritual prodigal in your home. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/6/2022. 8min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/5/2022. 16min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

1/4/2022. 21min

The Realities of Teen Suicide

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the issue of teen suicide. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/3/2022. 17min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

12/31/2021. 33min

How to Handle Consequences

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to deal with your teen and consequences. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/30/2021. 12min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/29/2021. 14min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

12/28/2021. 20min

Teen Triggers

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the things that trigger your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/27/2021. 15min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

12/24/2021. 27min

Communicating with Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about communicating with your teen by using their language. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/23/2021. 11min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/22/2021. 17min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

12/21/2021. 23min

What Are You Instilling in Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd outline 3 key character qualities to instill in your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/20/2021. 18min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

12/17/2021. 27min

Feeling Down and Out?

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd provide some encouragement to tired parents: Do. Not. Quit. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/16/2021. 12min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/15/2021. 23min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

12/14/2021. 28min

Tween Responsibility

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to build responsibility in your tween. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/13/2021. 17min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

12/10/2021. 17min

Should You Medicate Your Teen?

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd ask, "should you medicate your teen?" To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/9/2021. 17min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/8/2021. 17min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

12/7/2021. 23min

Teens and Drugs

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the increase of drug use among teens. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/6/2021. 18min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

12/3/2021. 30min

Having a Belief System

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about why it is important to establish a belief system in your home. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/2/2021. 16min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/1/2021. 13min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

11/30/2021. 23min

Second Chances

Do our teens deserve a second chance? Listen in to this episode as Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the topic of our teens and second chances. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/29/2021. 11min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

11/26/2021. 6min

Teen Discipline

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss 4 questions every parent must ask when it comes to teen discipline. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/25/2021. 13min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/24/2021. 17min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

11/23/2021. 19min

Filled with Thankfulness

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about ways to be filled with thankfulness as a parent. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/22/2021. 17min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

11/19/2021. 18min

This One Is for the Grandparents

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the important role grandparents play in the life of a teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/18/2021. 13min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/17/2021. 22min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

11/16/2021. 23min

Anxiety, Parents and Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about anxiety and how it can affect both you and your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/15/2021. 12min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

11/12/2021. 17min

Rebuilding Your Relationship with Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd outline 10 ways to rebuild a relationship with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/11/2021. 18min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/10/2021. 16min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

11/9/2021. 19min

Privacy and Protection

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to balance your teen’s internet privacy concerns while protecting them at the same time. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/4/2021. 11min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/3/2021. 18min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

11/2/2021. 21min

Good Parenting with Poor Results

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when you're parenting well, but things still aren't turning out well with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/1/2021. 11min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

10/29/2021. 22min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

10/28/2021. 13min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/27/2021. 14min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

10/26/2021. 19min

Consequences Without Guilt and Shame

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to give your teen consequences—without the added guilt and shame. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/25/2021. 18min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

10/22/2021. 21min

Helping Your Teen Navigate Life

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how YOU can be the GPS your teen needs to navigate their complicated life. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/21/2021. 11min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/20/2021. 17min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

10/19/2021. 21min

Becoming a Different Person on the Internet

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the dangers of the internet, especially when it turns your teen into a different person. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/18/2021. 19min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

10/15/2021. 20min

Your Teen and the World of Pornography

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to handle your kids, the internet and pornography. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/14/2021. 11min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/13/2021. 10min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

10/12/2021. 18min

Get a Clue!

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd ask the question, "Do you have a clue what's happening with your teen?" To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/11/2021. 15min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

10/8/2021. 24min

Encouragement for Part-Time Parents

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd offer encouragement to part-time parents as they walk a difficult path. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/7/2021. 12min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/6/2021. 17min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

10/5/2021. 22min

Don't Let Your Past Dictate Your Future

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepard talk about how to let go of the past and not let it ruin your future. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/4/2021. 14min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

10/1/2021. 22min

Maintain Your Authority

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what happens when you start to lose your authority with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/30/2021. 12min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/29/2021. 26min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

9/28/2021. 20min

Don't Push Away Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd list the 10 things parents do to push their teens away. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/27/2021. 14min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

9/24/2021. 14min

Where Does Anger Come From?

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd deal with the anatomy of anger. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/23/2021. 14min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/22/2021. 21min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

9/21/2021. 25min

When Selfishness Overtakes Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to deal with selfishness in the life of your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/20/2021. 17min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

9/17/2021. 12min

Conditional or Unconditional Love?

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shephard dive into a very important question: "Is the love you have for your teen conditional...or unconditional?" To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/16/2021. 13min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/15/2021. 19min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

9/14/2021. 20min

Failing the Right Way

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the good kind of failing. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/13/2021. 12min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

9/10/2021. 14min

Does Pain Have a Purpose?

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss whether or not pain has a purpose in the family unit. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/9/2021. 14min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/8/2021. 10min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

9/7/2021. 19min

The Importance of Reconciliation

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk to parents about the importance of reconciliation, especially when it comes to their relationship with their teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/6/2021. 18min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

9/3/2021. 27min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

9/2/2021. 28min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

9/1/2021. 28min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

8/31/2021. 26min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

8/30/2021. 28min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

8/27/2021. 22min

Looking for Love in All the Wrong Places

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when your teen looks for love in all the wrong places. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/26/2021. 14min

Judging Builds Walls

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional to help you as you parent your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/25/2021. 18min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

8/24/2021. 21min

5 Opportunities to Make the Best of the School Year with Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share 5 ways you can make the best of the school year with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/23/2021. 15min

Rules and Consequences ... That WORK!

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about rules and consequences that will actually work with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/19/2021. 14min

What's Behind Your Teen's Behavior

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a story that will help you better understand the key reasons for your teen's behavior. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/18/2021. 25min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

8/17/2021. 20min

Grace for Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to parent your teen with grace. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/16/2021. 15min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

8/13/2021. 20min

Slowly Letting Go

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to keep your teen close while slowly letting go. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

8/12/2021. 14min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/11/2021. 20min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

8/10/2021. 20min

Super-Grandparents

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how grandparents can be superheroes in the life of a teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/9/2021. 15min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

8/6/2021. 22min

Building a Healthy Relationship with Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd outline five markers of a healthy relationship with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/5/2021. 14min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/4/2021. 23min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

8/3/2021. 20min

Dealing with Your Teen and Drugs

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when your teen is involved with drugs. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/2/2021. 12min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

7/30/2021. 23min

Raising Independent Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talking about how to raise independent teens. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/29/2021. 14min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/28/2021. 26min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

7/27/2021. 20min

How to Argue Effectively with Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd give parents 7 ways to argue effectively with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/26/2021. 14min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

7/23/2021. 25min

When God Interrupts Your Life with Your Teenager

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when God interrupts your life with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/22/2021. 13min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/21/2021. 27min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

7/20/2021. 21min

Our Teen's Overexposure to Everything

On today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about our teen's overexposure to everything. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/19/2021. 10min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

7/16/2021. 24min

Your Teen's Search for Love and Value

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into the topic of your teen's search for love and value. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/15/2021. 14min

What Do Our Teens Really Want? (Part 2)

On this episode, Mark Gregston continues his talk about how to give our teens what they want, but also what they really need. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

7/14/2021. 28min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

7/13/2021. 22min

When Things Fall Apart at Home

On today’s episode, Mark Gregston is joined by Wayne Shepherd to talk about the role grandparents can play in helping to parent a teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/12/2021. 13min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

7/9/2021. 24min

How to Talk to Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd tackle the issue of how to talk to your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/8/2021. 15min

What Do Our Teens Really Want? (Part 1)

On this episode, Mark Gregston talks about how to give our teens what they want, but also what they really need. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

7/7/2021. 24min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

7/6/2021. 18min

Depression and Anxiety in Your Teen

On today’s episode, Mark Gregston is joined by Wayne Shepherd to talk about how to best deal with depression and anxiety in your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/5/2021. 11min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

7/2/2021. 25min

Getting to the Root of Your Teen's Issues

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about getting to the root of your teen’s issues. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/1/2021. 12min

What Motivates Your Child's Behavior (Part 3)

On this episode, Mark Gregston concludes his 3-part series on what motivates your child’s behavior. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

6/30/2021. 17min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

6/29/2021. 12min

When Teens Shut Down

On today’s episode, Mark Gregston is joined by Wayne Shepherd to talk about what to do when your teen shuts down. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

6/28/2021. 8min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

6/25/2021. 16min

What Triggers Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into the topic of things that trigger your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/25/2021. 15min

Help! My Kid's Friends Are Bad News

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd ask the question, “what if your kid’s friends are bad news?” To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

6/24/2021. 13min

What Motivates Your Child's Behavior (Part 2)

On this episode, Mark Gregston continues his 3-part series on what motivates your child’s behavior. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

6/23/2021. 13min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On today’s episode, Mark Gregston is joined by Wayne Shepard to talk about the role grandparents can play in helping to parent a teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

6/22/2021. 37min

Parenting As a Grandparent

On today’s episode, Mark Gregston is joined by Wayne Shepherd to talk about the role grandparents can play in helping to parent a teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

6/21/2021. 12min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

6/18/2021. 22min

A Refresher Course on Discipline

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd give a refresher course on discipline with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

6/17/2021. 12min

What Motivates Your Child's Behavior (Part 1)

On this episode, Mark Gregston begins a 3-part series on what motivates your child’s behavior. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

6/16/2021. 18min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

6/15/2021. 19min

Intervening in a Teen’s Life

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what happens when you have to intervene in your teen’s life. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

6/14/2021. 17min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

6/11/2021. 19min

Connecting with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about ways to connect with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

6/10/2021. 13min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

6/9/2021. 21min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

6/8/2021. 20min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

6/1/2021. 23min

Diffusing Angry Conflict in Your Home

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to diffuse angry conflict in your home. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

5/31/2021. 13min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

5/28/2021. 11min

When Our Teens Get Lost and Can’t Find Their Way Back Home

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when our teens get lost and can’t find their way back home. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

5/27/2021. 11min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

5/26/2021. 18min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

5/25/2021. 21min

The Dangers of Being a “Helicopter Parent"

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the dangers of being a helicopter parent. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

5/24/2021. 11min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

5/21/2021. 28min

Hope in the Midst of Conflict

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to find hope in the midst of conflict. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

5/20/2021. 11min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

5/19/2021. 32min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

5/18/2021. 20min

The Difficulties of Single Parenting

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the difficulties of single parenting. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

5/17/2021. 11min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

5/14/2021. 22min

Dealing with Teen Grief

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to deal with teen grief. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

5/13/2021. 15min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

5/12/2021. 16min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

5/11/2021. 20min

What Teens Wish Their Parents Knew

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into the topic of what teens wish their parents knew. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

5/10/2021. 29min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

5/7/2021. 22min

Releasing Tension in Your Home

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about ways to release tension in your home. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

5/6/2021. 22min

The Importance of Pain in our Child's Life

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional about the importance of pain in our child’s life. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

5/5/2021. 20min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

5/4/2021. 26min

Getting a New Perspective on Conflict

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to gain a new perspective on conflict with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

5/3/2021. 13min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

4/30/2021. 18min

The Practicality of Abstinence

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the practicality of abstinence. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/29/2021. 9min

A Parent's Greatest Challenge

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional about a parent's greatest challenge. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/28/2021. 27min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

4/27/2021. 24min

Your Teen, Drugs and Alcohol

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to deal with your teen, drugs and alcohol. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/26/2021. 11min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

4/23/2021. 17min

Controlling Guys in the Life of Your Teen Daughter

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do with controlling guys in the life of your teenage daughter. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/22/2021. 12min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/21/2021. 14min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

4/20/2021. 21min

Ways to Connect With Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about different ways to connect with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/19/2021. 13min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

4/16/2021. 21min

When Silence Builds Walls

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when silence builds walls with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/15/2021. 17min

Over-Responsible Parents, Irresponsible Kids

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/14/2021. 20min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

4/13/2021. 21min

Confronting Teen Mistakes

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to confront teen mistakes. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/12/2021. 17min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

4/9/2021. 7min

Finding Your Dream Home

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore different ways of building your dream home with your family. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/8/2021. 15min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit

4/7/2021. 16min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

4/6/2021. 18min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

2/5/2021. 6min

When Your Teen Isn’t Telling You the Truth

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when your teen isn't telling you the truth. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/5/2021. 10min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

4/2/2021. 26min

Failure to Launch: What to Do When Your Teen Doesn’t Want to Do Anything

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when your teen doesn’t want to do anything. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

4/1/2021. 19min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/31/2021. 17min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

3/30/2021. 25min

Fight, Flight or Freeze: What Does Your Teen Do When Faced With Difficulty and Hardship?

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when your teen is faced with difficulty and hardship. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/29/2021. 17min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

3/26/2021. 11min

Building a Healthy Relationship With Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about ways to build a healthy relationship with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/25/2021. 12min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/24/2021. 17min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

3/23/2021. 19min

Helping Your Teen Make Wise Choices

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to help your teen make wise choices. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/22/2021. 12min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

3/19/2021. 17min

Don't Miss the Opportunities

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the importance of not missing any opportunities with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/18/2021. 11min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/17/2021. 18min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

3/16/2021. 19min

Communication Mistakes

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when you’ve made communication mistakes with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/15/2021. 12min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

3/12/2021. 18min

Personal Boundaries for Teens ...and Parents

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk to parents about establishing personal boundaries for both you and your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/11/2021. 19min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/10/2021. 22min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

3/9/2021. 21min

Help! Nothing Is Working with My Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when it feels like nothing is working with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/8/2021. 15min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

3/5/2021. 20min

Internet Safety

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the importance of internet safety with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/4/2021. 15min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/3/2021. 13min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

3/2/2021. 22min

Letting Your Teen Know They Are Valued

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to let your teen know they are valued. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

3/1/2021. 18min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/24/2021. 14min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

2/23/2021. 23min

When You've Been "Fired" by Your Teenager

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when your teenager fires you. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/22/2021. 19min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

2/19/2021. 17min

Is Teen Suicide Getting Worse?

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd wrestle with the issue of teen suicide. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/18/2021. 17min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/17/2021. 22min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

2/16/2021. 20min

Start Doing This, Stop Doing That

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about things you should stop doing as a parent, but also things you should begin doing. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/15/2021. 19min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

2/12/2021. 16min

3 Character Qualities to Instill in Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about 3 character qualities to instill in your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/11/2021. 18min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/10/2021. 17min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

2/9/2021. 21min

Dealing with Consequences

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about something every parent has to deal with: consequences. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/8/2021. 12min

Destructive Behaviors in Your Teen's Life

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when there are destructive behaviors in your teen’s life. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/4/2021. 13min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/3/2021. 16min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

2/2/2021. 23min

Spiritual Prodigals

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to deal with a spiritual prodigal in your home. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

2/1/2021. 8min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

1/29/2021. 14min

Building Responsibility in Our Tweens

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to build responsibility in your tween. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/28/2021. 17min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/27/2021. 17min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

1/26/2021. 24min

Speaking the Language of Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd give their insights on how to speak the language of your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/25/2021. 11min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

1/22/2021. 17min

What to Do When Your Child Doesn't Want to Go to Church Anymore

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when your child doesn't want to go to church anymore. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/21/2021. 11min

What Is Truly Valuable

On this episode, Mark Gregston talks about cherishing the truly valuable things in life. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

1/20/2021. 19min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

1/19/2021. 28min

When You Feel Isolated and Alone

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to deal with feelings of isolation and loneliness. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/18/2021. 17min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

1/15/2021. 27min

Giving Feedback to Our Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to give good feedback to your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/14/2021. 17min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/13/2021. 21min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

1/12/2021. 23min

What to Do When You Feel Tired and Defeated

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when you feel tired and defeated. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/11/2021. 12min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

1/8/2021. 25min

Wake Up! Your Teen May Be Using Drugs

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the topic of your teen and drugs. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/7/2021. 18min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/6/2021. 10min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

1/5/2021. 23min

When Divorce Impacts Your Family

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into the topic of what to do when divorce impacts your family. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

1/4/2021. 16min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

1/1/2021. 6min

A Fresh Start for a New Year

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how you can have a fresh start for a New Year. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/31/2020. 14min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/30/2020. 26min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

12/29/2020. 20min

Assesing your Relationship with your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd provide a checklist to help you assess your current relationship with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/28/2020. 16min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

12/25/2020. 22min

Peace and Joy at Home

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what it takes to have peace and joy at home this holiday season. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/24/2020. 14min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/23/2020. 10min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

12/22/2020. 23min

The Importance of Engaging with your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the importance of engaging with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/21/2020. 12min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

12/18/2020. 9min

Giving Our Teens a Second Chance

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about giving our teens a second chance. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

12/17/2020. 11min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/16/2020. 23min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

12/15/2020. 21min

Why Boundaries Are So Important

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about why boundaries are so important in the life of our teens. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/14/2020. 16min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

12/11/2020. 21min

Being Your Teen's GPS

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to be the GPS your teen needs to navigate life. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/28/2020. 11min

Understanding the World of Video Games

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to better understand the world of video games. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/10/2020. 18min

5 Reasons for Your Teen's Behavior

On this episode, Mark Gregston gets personal with a story that will help you better understand 5 of the key reasons for your teen's behavior. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/9/2020. 25min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

12/8/2020. 22min

To Medicate or Not Medicate?

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd ask the question, "to medicate, or not to medicate?" To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/7/2020. 17min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

12/4/2020. 12min

Why Am I So Anxious As a Parent?

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the issue of anxiety, and discuss how it can affect both you as a parent, and your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/3/2020. 12min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

12/2/2020. 27min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

12/1/2020. 21min

Iceberg or Icecube?

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to determine if a problem is big or small in your home. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/30/2020. 16min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/27/2020. 20min

Being a Thankful Parent

On this special Thanksgiving episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to be a thankful parent. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/26/2020. 17min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/25/2020. 20min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/24/2020. 19min

Establishing a Belief System in your Home

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the importance of establishing a belief system in your home. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/23/2020. 16min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

11/20/2020. 22min

The Types of Parents That Kids Hate

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the types of parents that kids hate. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/19/2020. 16min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/18/2020. 26min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

11/17/2020. 17min

10 Ways to Rebuild a Relationship with Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd outline 10 ways to rebuild a relationship with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/16/2020. 18min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

11/13/2020. 24min

Beware of the Teen Pitfalls

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd give practical ways to help you beware of key teen pitfalls. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/12/2020. 17min

When Relationships Are the Most Important with Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston talks about when relationships are the most important with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/11/2020. 19min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

11/10/2020. 19min

The Anatomy of Anger

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the anatomy of anger. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/9/2020. 14min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

11/6/2020. 14min

10 Things Parents Do to Push Their Teens Away

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about 10 things parents do to push their teens away. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/5/2020. 14min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/4/2020. 18min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

11/3/2020. 22min

The Changing Nature of Discipline

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss 4 questions every parent must ask themselves about teen discipline. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

11/2/2020. 13min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

10/30/2020. 19min

Why Traditional Parenting No Longer Works

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into the ideas behind why traditional parenting no longer works. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/29/2020. 10min

A Devotional from Mark

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional that will speak to you no matter what your current relationship is with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/28/2020. 24min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

10/27/2020. 19min

Consequences Without Guilt and Shame

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to give your teen consequences - without the added guilt and shame. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/26/2020. 16min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

10/23/2020. 16min

Selfishness and Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to deal with selfishness and your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/22/2020. 17min

What Do Our Teens Really Want? (Part 2)

On this episode, Mark Gregston continues his talk about how to give our teens what they want, but also what they really need. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

10/21/2020. 28min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/20/2020. 21min

Calling All Grandparents

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the important role grandparents play in the life of a teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/19/2020. 13min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

10/16/2020. 23min

Q&A With Mark Gregston

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

9/25/2020. 23min

When Good Parenting Yields Bad Results

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when good parenting yields bad results with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/15/2020. 11min

What Do Our Teens Really Want? (Part 1)

On this episode, Mark Gregston talks about how to give our teens what they want, but also what they really need. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

10/14/2020. 24min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

10/13/2020. 20min

Parenting with an Adopted Child

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about parenting and adoption. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/12/2020. 17min

Mark Answers Your Questions

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/9/2020. 28min

Teens Who Demand and Parents Who Don't

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to be a parent who demands more from their teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/8/2020. 16min

Where is your Treasure?

On this episode, Mark Gregston talks about learning to cherish the truly valuable things in this fragile life. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

10/7/2020. 19min

Mark's Interviews with Teens

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

10/6/2020. 21min

Don't Lose Your Authority!

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when you've lost your authority with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/5/2020. 12min

Q&A With Mark Gregston

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

10/2/2020. 22min

Saying NO to Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about saying NO to your teen ... when maybe you should be saying YES more often. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

10/1/2020. 10min

Gaining Biblical Understanding and Wisdom

On this episode, Mark Gregston talks about gaining understanding and wisdom from a biblical perspective as you parent your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

9/30/2020. 32min

Stories From Heartlight

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

9/29/2020. 20min

Reconciliation with Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk to parents about how to keep the marriage going in the midst of teen struggles. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/24/2020. 18min

When You Don't Know What to Do

On this episode, Mark Gregston talks about what to do when you feel like you're lost and don't know what to do with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

9/23/2020. 16min

Stories From Heartlight

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

9/22/2020. 25min

Parental Controls and the Internet

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to balance your teen’s internet privacy concerns with protecting them. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/21/2020. 11min

Q&A With Mark Gregston

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

9/18/2020. 19min

Keeping the Marriage Going in the Midst of Teen Struggles

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk to parents about how to keep the marriage going in the midst of teen struggles. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/17/2020. 17min

Why Active Listening Is So Important

On this episode, Mark Gregston talks about why active listening is one of the best things you can give your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

9/16/2020. 14min

Stories From Heartlight

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

9/15/2020. 22min

Your Kids, the Internet and Pornography

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd tackle the topic of your kids, the internet and pornography. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/14/2020. 11min

Q&A With Mark Gregston

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

9/11/2020. 18min

Is the Internet Making Your Teen a Different Person?

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the dangers of the internet, especially if it’s making your teen a different person. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/10/2020. 19min

The Contrary Culture Our Teens are Living In

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares some wisdom regarding the contrary culture our teens are living in. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

9/9/2020. 17min

Stories From Heartlight

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

9/8/2020. 23min

A Message for Part-Time Parents

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd give encouragement and advice to part-time parents. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/7/2020. 12min

Q&A With Mark Gregston

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

9/4/2020. 23min

Social Networking and Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about social networking and your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/3/2020. 18min

Performance Based Relationships (Part 2)

On this episode, Mark Gregston completes his 2-part series on performance based relationships. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

9/2/2020. 13min

Stories From Heartlight

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

9/1/2020. 18min

The Purpose of Pain

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the purpose of pain. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/31/2020. 14min

Q&A With Mark Gregston

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

8/28/2020. 18min

Making the Best of the School Year with your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd outline five opportunities to make the best of the school year with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/27/2020. 15min

Performance Based Relationships (Part 1)

On this episode, Mark Gregston begins a 2-part series on performance based relationships. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

8/26/2020. 14min

Stories From Heartlight

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

8/25/2020. 19min

Keeping your Teens Close while Letting the Rope Out

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to keep your teen close while slowly letting go. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/24/2020. 14min

Q&A With Mark Gregston

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

8/21/2020. 18min

Do You Have a Clue What's Happening with your Teen?

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd ask the question, "Do you have a clue what's happening with your teen?" To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/20/2020. 15min

Lecturing and Nagging

On this episode, Mark Gregston shares a devotional about how to avoid lecturing and nagging your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

8/19/2020. 17min

Stories From Heartlight

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

8/18/2020. 19min

Your Teen's Online Life

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about five healthy ways to handle your teen's online life. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/17/2020. 14min

Q&A With Mark Gregston

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

8/14/2020. 7min

What’s Happening to My Teen?

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the good kind of failing. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/13/2020. 12min

A Devotional for Dads

On this episode, Mark Gregston finishes his 3-part series on what motivates your child’s behavior. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

8/12/2020. 17min

Stories From Heartlight

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

8/11/2020. 20min

Five Markers of a Healthy Relationship with Your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the five markers of a healthy relationship with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/10/2020. 14min

Q&A With Mark Gregston

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/7/2020. 10min

Grandparents Can Be Superheroes

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how grandparents can be superheroes in the life of a teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/6/2020. 15min

What Motivates Your Child's Behavior (Part 2)

On this episode, Mark Gregston continues his 3-part series on what motivates your child’s behavior. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

8/5/2020. 13min

Stories From Heartlight

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/4/2020. 20min

When your Teen Looks for Love in the Wrong Place

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when your teen looks for love in all the wrong places. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

8/3/2020. 14min

Q&A With Mark Gregston

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

7/31/2020. 8min

Parenting Teens with Grace

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to parent your teen with grace. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/30/2020. 15min

What Motivates Your Child's Behavior (Part 1)

On this episode, Mark Gregston begins a 3-part series on what motivates your child’s behavior. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

7/29/2020. 18min

Stories From Heartlight

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit

7/28/2020. 21min

Raising Teens to Become Independent

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to raise your teen to beocome independent. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/27/2020. 14min

Q&A With Mark Gregston

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/24/2020. 7min

Your Teen and Drugs

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dig in to the topic of your teen and drugs. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/23/2020. 12min

Dealing with Anger

On this episode, Mark Gregston talks about how to deal with anger with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/22/2020. 18min

Stories From Heartlight

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/21/2020. 20min

What if Your Kid's Friends are Bad News?

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd ask the question, “what if your kid’s friends are bad news?” To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/20/2020. 13min

Q&A With Mark Gregston

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/17/2020. 7min

7 Ways to Argue Effectively with your Teen

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss 7 ways to argue effectively with your teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/16/2020. 14min

The Key People who Influence our Kid's Lives

On this episode, Mark Gregston talks about the key people who influence our kid's lives. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/15/2020. 17min

Stories From Heartlight

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/14/2020. 20min

Is your Love for your Teen Conditional or Unconditional?

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into a very important question: "Is the love you have for your teen conditional...or unconditional?" To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/13/2020. 13min

Embracing Your Parenting Role as a Grandparent

On today’s episode, Mark Gregston is joined by Wayne Shepherd to talk about the role grandparents can play in helping to parent a teen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/9/2020. 12min

The Importance of Listening

On today's episode, Mark Gregston shares why he believes it's so important for both parents and teens to actively listen. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/8/2020. 22min

Stories From Heartlight

On this episode, Mark Gregston listens to the stories of a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit HeartlightMinistries.org. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/7/2020. 20min

Rules and Consequences That Actually Work

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about rules and consequences that actually work. To learn more, visit ParentingTodaysTeens.org

7/6/2020. 14min

Q&A With Mark Gregston

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

7/3/2020. 13min

Letting Go Of The Past

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about what to do when it’s hard to let go of the past. To learn more, visit

7/2/2020. 14min

Living Your Life with Impact and Significance

On this episode, Mark Gregston talks about the way to build a lasting legacy. To learn more, visit

7/1/2020. 19min

Stories From Heartlight

On this episode, Mark Gregston has a conversation with a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit . To learn more, visit

6/30/2020. 37min

Parenting Your Teen With Conviction AND Compassion

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how to parent your teen with conviction AND compassion. To learn more, visit

6/29/2020. 13min

Q&A With Mark Gregston

On this episode, Mark Gregston answers some of your most pressing questions. To learn more, visit

6/26/2020. 15min

Surviving in the Jungle

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about helping your teens survive in the jungle. To learn more, visit

6/25/2020. 13min

Communicating With Your Teen During Covid-19

On this episode, Mark Gregston offers practical wisdom for how you can best communicate with your teen while stuck at home during the Covid-19 pandemic. To learn more, visit

6/24/2020. 8min

Stories From Heartlight

On this episode, Mark Gregston has a conversation with a couple of Heartlight teens. To learn more about Heartlight, visit . To learn more, visit

6/23/2020. 20min

Your Teen’s Search For Wisdom

On this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about your teen’s search for wisdom. To learn more, visit

6/22/2020. 14min

Welcome to Parenting Today's Teens

A daily podcast released every weekday, the Parenting Today’s Teens Podcast features Mark Gregston, a parenting expert who has worked with teens and parents for over 45 years. His wit and wisdom has been gathered through his experiences of working...

6/15/2020. 2min

Six Steps to Take with Your Entitled Teen

12/4/2025. 24min

Setting Boundaries for Your Family

12/8/2025. 25min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Motivation, Boundaries and Mental Health

12/5/2025. 27min

Teen Stories: Breaking Through Isolation

12/9/2025. 22min

Mark's Journey to Genuineness

12/10/2025. 16min

Balancing Tough Love and Compassion

12/11/2025. 25min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Faith, Freedom and Figuring Out Family Rules

12/12/2025. 27min

When You're at the End of Your Rope

12/15/2025. 25min

Teen Stories: Breaking the Mold

12/16/2025. 23min

Small Conversations Build Lifelong Influence

12/17/2025. 16min

Christmas in the Midst of Conflict

12/18/2025. 27min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Tough Calls on Therapy, Consequences and Connection

12/19/2025. 22min

Teen Stories: When Parents Really Listen

12/23/2025. 22min

Allowing Teens to Control Their Lives

12/22/2025. 25min

Giving Teens Certainty in an Uncertain World

12/24/2025. 26min

Grandparenting During the Holidays

12/25/2025. 25min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Structure, Screen Time and Stepping into Adulthood

12/26/2025. 18min

Help for When Parents Feel Hopeless

12/29/2025. 26min

Giving Grace When Teens Make Mistakes

1/22/2026. 24min

Teen Stories: Battling Low Self-Worth

2/3/2026. 30min

A Fresh Start for Your Family

1/1/2026. 26min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Tough Conversations, Growing Up and Coming Home

1/2/2026. 22min

Making the Most of One-on-One Time with Your Teen

1/5/2026. 26min

Teen Stories: Searching for Validation

1/6/2026. 22min

Don’t Give Up: Hope Grows Through the Struggle

1/7/2026. 17min

Fostering Respect at Home

1/8/2026. 25min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Bullying, Beliefs and Battling Teen Angst

1/9/2026. 23min

Dating and Your Teen

1/12/2026. 24min

Teen Stories: Learning to Cope Without Drugs

1/13/2026. 21min

When a Once-Close Relationship Feels Distant

1/14/2026. 17min

Types of Parenting That Will Push Teens Away

1/15/2026. 25min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Discipline, Divorce and the Digital Age

1/16/2026. 19min

Grandparents Are a Gift

1/19/2026. 26min

Wisdom Over Knowledge

1/21/2026. 22min

Teen Stories: Searching for Trust

1/20/2026. 19min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Quiet Preteens, First Love and Grandparent Dilemmas

1/23/2026. 20min

Is Your Teen Leading a Double Life?

1/29/2026. 24min

Performance-Based Relationships

1/28/2026. 14min

Teen Stories: Reckoning with Privilege

1/27/2026. 24min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Screens, Social Lives and Setting Boundaries

1/30/2026. 28min

Strategies for Raising Responsible Teens

2/2/2026. 24min

How to Support Your Teen with ADHD

2/9/2026. 26min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Rules, Rebellion and Recovery

2/13/2026. 35min

Managing Your Teen's Phone

2/12/2026. 25min

A Parent’s Most Important Message: 'You Are Enough'

2/11/2026. 13min

Teen Stories: Fleeing Hurt

2/10/2026. 20min

Does Your Teen Smile Anymore?

2/16/2026. 26min

I Mustache Mark a Question: Teen Dating, Church Changes and Digital Dangers

2/20/2026. 26min

Teen Depression and Its Consequences

2/19/2026. 25min

God Is Bigger Than We Think

2/18/2026. 11min

Teen Stories: How Honesty Builds Connection

2/17/2026. 21min

What Is Worth Fighting For?

1/26/2026. 24min

Teen Stories: Weathering the Storm

12/30/2025. 18min

Parenting Today's Teens Podcast

Teen Stories: The Ups and Downs of Mental Health

How Perspective Can Change Your Approach

Understanding the Pain Beneath the Choices

How a Divorce Affects Your Teen

I Mustache Mark a Question: Rebuilding Trust, Navigating Loss and Encouraging Independence

Unpacking Reckless & Impulsive Behavior in Teens

Navigating Radicalization and Acceptance in Today’s Teens

Helping Teens Heal from Unresolved Hurt

Teen Stories: Shedding the Mask

I Mustache Mark a Question: Vaping, Drinking and the Search for Acceptance

Mean Girls, Social Media and Building Resilience

Helping Teens Process Pain and Heal

Teen Stories: What's Left Unsaid

How to Share Spiritual Values with Today’s Teens

I Mustache Mark a Question: Balancing Boundaries and Building Trust

Are You Passing on Bad Habits to Your Teens?

Teen Stories: Out of Control

Stop Controlling and Start Trusting Your Teen

Navigating Teen Romance

I Mustache Mark a Question: Respect, Rebellion and Raising Responsible Kids

I Mustache Mark a Question: Setting Boundaries With Teens & Young Adults

9 Things Boomers Do to Drive Away Their Children & Grandkids

When Your Child's Choices Hurt

Teen Stories: Looking For Answers

Decisions That Shape Generations

Teen Stories: When You Don't Feel Worthy

Addressing the Fear Factor

I Mustache Mark a Question: Setting Rules, Seeking Connection and Staying Calm

Shut Your Mouth, Open Your Ears

Understanding the ‘Why’ Behind Teen Outbursts

Teen Stories: Finding Yourself Again

Rescuing or Preparing: Are You Robbing Your Teen?

The Power of Influence: Overcoming Negativity

I Mustache Mark a Question: Handling Teen Drama and Risky Choices

Searching for Connection: Why Your Teen Turns to Drugs

Teen Stories: The Disconnection Dilemma

The Cost of Fitting In

Influenced by Encouragement

I Mustache Mark a Question: Parenting Older Teens, Independence and Consequences

Quit Correcting. Start Connecting.

Breaking Patterns, Building Trust & Beating Boredom

Teen Stories: Breaking the Cycle of Chaos

Nurturing Leadership in Your Teen

Knowing What’s Normal in the Teen Years

Teen Stories: Letting Go of Old Habits

Barriers to a Good Relationship with Your Teen

I Mustache Mark a Question: Identity, Influence and Intimacy

What’s Driving Today’s Teen Radicalization?

Raising Responsible Teens

Teen Stories: The Masks We Wear

Making the Most of Summertime with Your Teen

I Mustache Mark a Question: Screen Time Struggles

A Mental Health Checkup for Teens

The Power of Listening

Teen Stories: What Really Drives Rebellion

Why Do Teens Act Recklessly?

I Mustache Mark a Question: Screentime, Structure and Standards

Phones, Teens & Boundaries: How to Stay Connected Without Losing Control

Are We Good Enough?

Teen Stories: Taking a Step Back

Supporting Your Teen with ADHD

I Mustache Mark a Question: Culture, Connection and Crisis

I Mustache Mark a Question: Dishonesty, Discipline and Distance

Helping Your Teen Through Loss

The Power of Presence and Legacy

Teen Stories: Learning How to Trust Again

When Your Teen's Tongue Turns Toxic

I Mustache Mark a Question: Addiction, Attitude and Accountability

The Cross and Your Teen

The Importance of Listening

Teen Stories: Learning Healthy Ways to Cope

Teens and Faith

I Mustache Mark a Question: Bullying, Boundaries and Beliefs

How to Handle Hot Topics with Your Teen

Relationship Over Expectations

Teen Stories: The Road to Rebuilding Trust

How to Gain Your Teen's Respect

I Mustache Mark a Question: Faith, Family and Friction

The Mentoring Role of Grandparents