Parenting Today's Teens

In this Q&A episode, Mark addresses some tough challenges parents are facing with their teens today. He answers listener questions on supporting a teen dealing with depression and drug use, how to respond when teens show no interest in talking about relationships and what to do if you feel desperate about getting your child help — especially when resources are tight. Mark also shares advice for parenting special needs teens, managing explosive anger outbursts, and what to do when your 18-year-old ignores chores and becomes glued to video games. All throughout, Mark emphasizes the importance of realistic expectations and kn...

Your job as a parent isn’t simply to teach your teen what to do — it’s to prepare them to eventually do it without you. Mark, Wayne and Courtney unpack the important progression from teaching to training to transferring responsibility. They explain why parenting must change during adolescence and how giving teens opportunities to make decisions, take responsibility and even fail can prepare them for adulthood. You’ll also hear from a Heartlight teen, who shares how honest conversations and growing personal responsibility helped transform his relationships and outlook. Tune in for advice on helping your teen mature while kn...

Your teen has access to more information than ever before. What they need from you is something Google can’t give them: wisdom. In this episode, Mark explains how parents and grandparents can turn biblical truth, personal experiences, mistakes and lessons learned into wisdom teens can actually apply to their lives. He shares why storytelling can be such a powerful way to connect, how to approach difficult subjects with truth and love, and why intentional conversations matter more than simply dispensing advice. Listen in for practical encouragement on becoming a trusted source of perspective, hope and wisdom in your te...

Every teen has a story, and sometimes the pain they carry comes out in ways parents don’t expect. In today’s show, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens who share how broken relationships at home — whether with parents or grandparents — pushed them toward destructive choices. Both guests open up about the struggles that led them to Heartlight, from anger and rebellion to depression and self-medication. Yet, underneath those behaviors is a longing for connection. Today, these teens are finding new hope by rebuilding trust and opening their hearts to the family members who never gave up on them.

Does your teen feel truly heard — or are you already preparing your response while they're still talking? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Courtney explain why listening is one of the most powerful ways parents can strengthen their relationship with their teen. They share practical strategies for asking deeper questions, resisting the urge to lecture or correct, and creating conversations where teens feel safe opening up. You'll also hear from a Heartlight teen who shares how better communication helped transform her relationship with her parents. Tune in for tips to help you listen more intentionally and better understand your te...

In this week’s episode, Mark dives into the complex world of trust between parents and teens. He tackles what to do when your teen keeps repeating behaviors that broke your trust, how to respond when lies have become a pattern and how to keep going when you’ve given chance after chance but nothing seems to improve. Mark unpacks why teens might struggle to be honest, and shares advice for handling repeated disappointment while still helping teens grow in decision-making. With real-life examples and candid wisdom, Mark encourages parents to focus less on broken trust and more on crea...

Every teen makes mistakes. The question is whether those mistakes become a source of growth or a burden of shame. Mark and Wayne discuss the important difference between guilt and shame and how parents can help their teens move beyond both. You'll also hear a candid conversation with a Heartlight student, who shares how unresolved trauma led to destructive choices — and how honesty, grace and the support of others helped her begin finding healing. Tune in for biblical encouragement and practical wisdom on helping your teen find healing, forgiveness and hope after they've messed up.

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Every parent wants the best for their teen. But could high expectations unintentionally leave them wondering if your love depends on their performance? In this episode, Mark challenges parents to distinguish between holding biblical standards and communicating unconditional love. Mark explains why teens need grace as much as guidance, how performance-based relationships can lead to shame and discouragement, and why the strongest families separate a child's actions from their worth. He also shares practical conversation starters to help parents better understand what their teens are really feeling. Tune in for a timely reminder that while expectations matter, your relationship...

Every family has its battles, but for some teens, the struggle goes way beyond curfews and chores. In today’s episode, Mark talks with two Heartlight teens who open up about what really drove their rebellious choices — from strict rules and broken trust to feeling invisible at home. Through honest stories of addiction, conflict and searching for acceptance, both reveal how the craving for freedom can backfire and make home life feel even harder. Listen in to hear how they’re working through misunderstandings with their parents, facing the realities of social media and learning why "feeling seen" can mean s...

Grandparents have a unique opportunity to influence the next generation in ways few others can. In this episode, Mark and Wayne explore the unique role grandparents play in the lives of teenagers. Mark explains why grandparents often have an advantage: They can offer perspective instead of pressure, encouragement instead of correction and a listening ear without the day-to-day tensions of parenting. You'll also hear the moving story of a Heartlight student whose journey highlights the life-changing impact of having caring adults who offer hope, wisdom and unconditional love.

Mark's book, "Grandparenting Teens," is a valuable resource that...

In this Q&A episode, Mark dives into some more of your toughest parenting questions — tackling everything from handling teen anger and destructive behavior to navigating faith differences in the home. He covers what to do when your teen returns from residential treatment and the problems continue, how to respond when your daughter seems like a different person at church than at home and ways to handle harsh parenting styles that create disconnection. Throughout the episode, he emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships, creating safe structure and getting to the heart behind your teen’s behavior.

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Your teen may not always know how to say it, but they're longing for more than rules, advice and correction. Mark and Wayne explore four things every teen deeply desires from their parents. Through practical wisdom and a powerful conversation with a Heartlight student, Mark explains how these foundational needs can transform a family's relationship and help teens find security at home instead of searching for it elsewhere. Tune in for practical encouragement on becoming the safe, steady presence your teen needs most.

Old-school communication tactics and lecturing fall flat with today’s teens. Learn more effective wa...

In this episode, Mark challenges parents to examine whether their words and actions unintentionally communicate that love is conditional. Through the heartbreaking story of a young woman who struggled with self-worth and rejection from her birth mother and others, Mark explains how performance-based relationships can leave lasting emotional wounds. He offers practical encouragement for separating your relationship from your teen’s performance, reflecting God’s unconditional love and creating a home where grace — not achievement — is the foundation.

For more help for parents of adopted teens, visit bit.ly/seeing-adoption-from-your-teens-perspective

Sometimes the battles our teens face are hidden — masked by distance, secrecy and behaviors we struggle to understand. On today’s show, Mark and Courtney sit down with two young women at Heartlight who share honest stories of pain, isolation and the search for trust. Whether it’s hiding self-harm or locking themselves away, both guests reveal how hard it was to let parents in — and how healing began when their families learned to listen and simply love. Tune in to hear their powerful journeys from silent suffering to finding hope for the future.

To learn more about th...

For many teens, going back to school means far more than buying new supplies and settling into a routine. It also brings pressure, comparison, loneliness and other new challenges. Mark and Wayne discuss how parents can help their teens navigate the emotional and social pressures of a new school year. Through practical advice and a powerful conversation with a Heartlight student, Mark reminds parents to focus on connection over performance, communicate with empathy and look beneath behaviors to understand what their teen is really experiencing. Tune in to help your teen face the school year with confidence, resilience and...

In this Q&A episode, Mark dives into more pressing parenting questions, covering everything from enforcing boundaries with teens who push limits to navigating tough conversations surrounding faith, identity and relationships. He shares real-world advice on how to keep teens accountable — like when a 16-year-old disregards bedroom door rules with a girlfriend — while preserving trust and respect at home. Mark also discusses shifting from teaching to training as your kids mature and finding healthy approaches for homeschool families. If you’re struggling to let go of control, manage kids’ risky behaviors or keep connection alive through the hard stuff, you’ll f...

No parent wants to see their teen suffer. But could protecting them from every hardship actually keep them from growing? In this episode, Mark and Wayne discuss the important role pain plays in developing maturity, responsibility and resilience. Mark explains the difference between helping and rescuing, why natural consequences often become life's greatest teachers and how parents can walk alongside their teens without removing every obstacle. Most importantly, he reminds parents to be a consistent source of hope, even in the middle of difficult circumstances. Tune in for practical wisdom on helping your teen grow stronger through life's challenges...

What are you saving for someday that could be enriching your relationships today? Mark reflects on how quickly life passes and why the greatest inheritance we leave isn’t our possessions, but the time and experiences we share with the people we love. Through the moving story of a dear friend, Mark offers a powerful reminder not to postpone what matters most. He encourages parents and grandparents to invest their time, resources and presence in their families now. Tune in and be inspired to stop waiting for someday, because the special occasion is today.

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When life gets tough at home, teens can end up feeling alone and misunderstood — even by those who love them most. In today’s episode, Mark talks with two Heartlight residents who found themselves spiraling after family problems and personal struggles. Whether it was turning to substances or pushing people away, both realized their coping skills weren’t working. Through honest conversations at Heartlight, these teens share how they’ve learned to open up about their pain, rebuild trust and reconnect with family. Listen in for a down-to-earth look at why talking it out really does make a difference — and how he...

Your teen still needs your wisdom, even when it seems like they no longer want your advice. In this episode, Mark and Wayne discuss how parents can remain a trusted voice as their children move through adolescence. Mark explains why this season calls for a shift from lectures and instructions to thoughtful questions, genuine listening and conversations that help teens apply what they've already been taught. He also encourages parents to be honest about their own mistakes, creating room for teens to wrestle with choices without feeling they must be perfect. Listen in for practical ways to share wisdom...

In today's Q&A episode, Mark tackles topics like handling teens who are hooked on video games, managing tech boundaries when consequences have been lacking and helping kids who are losing motivation. Mark also discusses how to deal with the interim period when teens are almost adults — like when a daughter wants to get a tattoo as soon as she turns 18 — and how parents can navigate their mixed feelings on it. Through it all, Mark emphasizes keeping relationships first, balancing consequences with connection, and knowing when to step back and just listen.

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Do your teens think they have to be perfect ... or do they know it's safe to make mistakes at home? Mark and Wayne discuss why striving for a "perfect family" can unintentionally create pressure, fear and distance. Mark shares how embracing your own imperfections can strengthen relationships, encourage honest conversations and give your teen hope that mistakes don't define them. He also explains why grace, healthy consequences and authenticity create an environment where real growth can take place. Tune in to discover how an imperfect home can become the perfect place for your teen to experience love, acceptance and...

When your teen is struggling, it's easy to wonder if anything you're doing is making a difference. In this episode, Mark offers a heartfelt devotional for parents who feel exhausted, discouraged or uncertain about the future. Drawing from decades of walking alongside families in crisis, Mark reminds listeners that difficult seasons don't last forever, and faithful, intentional parenting is never wasted. He shares practical encouragement for staying engaged, holding onto hope and investing in your teen even when you can't yet see the outcome. Tune in for a timely reminder that God is still at work, and your perseverance...

When you feel misunderstood at home and overwhelmed by the pressures of life, it's hard not to sink into despair ... but someone lending a listening ear can make all the difference. In this episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens who open up about drifting apart from family, battling anxiety and getting caught up in comparisons that left them feeling not quite “enough.” They talk honestly about how phone addiction, peer drama and never getting real face time made everything worse — until Heartlight offered a new way to connect. Listen in as they share what helped them start rebuil...

When is the right time to give your child a cell phone? And how can you help them use it wisely? Mark and Wayne discuss practical strategies for preparing kids to navigate today's digital world with wisdom and discernment. Mark explains why training is more important than simply restricting, how healthy boundaries should evolve as children mature and why parents should focus on building internal conviction instead of relying solely on external controls. Tune in for practical guidance on helping your teen develop healthy technology habits while strengthening your relationship along the way.

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In this week's Q&A episode, Mark tackles topics like guiding a 16-year-old boy struggling with pornography, supporting a daughter diagnosed with depression and mood disorders after divorce, and responding when kids face unkindness at school. Mark also addresses what to do when your teen would rather play video games than connect with family. With a focus on building authentic relationships and engaging conversations, he offers strategies to encourage accountability, nurture emotional health and create alternatives that draw your teen closer to you.

Have a question for Mark? Go to markgregston.com to send it in!

What should you do when your teen no longer wants to go to church? Mark and Wayne explore why many teenagers begin losing interest in church during adolescence, and why that doesn't necessarily mean they're walking away from Christ. Mark encourages parents to distinguish between a crisis of faith and a season of spiritual growth, offering practical wisdom on fostering meaningful conversations, giving teens age-appropriate ownership of their faith and responding with grace instead of fear.

During the teen years, it’s crucial to begin allowing your teen to take responsibility for their own faith. Find out ho...

Years from now, what will your children remember most about you? Mark reflects on the legacy parents leave behind — not through money or possessions, but through meaningful experiences and intentional relationships. Sharing personal stories about family, gratitude and his own father, Mark encourages parents to invest in memories that shape hearts long after childhood ends. He offers practical ideas for creating traditions, strengthening family bonds and making the most of the time you have together. Tune in for an inspiring reminder that the greatest inheritance you can leave your children is a life filled with love, presence and unforgettable mo...

For a lot of teens, the pressure to fit in can make them forget who they really are — and sometimes even push them toward choices they regret. In today’s episode, Mark talks with two young men at Heartlight who know what it’s like to struggle with rejection, wrestle with guilt and question their self-worth. They share how chasing acceptance from others led them down difficult paths, and how their time at Heartlight helped them realize the importance of building self-esteem. Tune in to hear how these teens are learning that true belonging starts with accepting themselves and allowi...

Why do teens take risks they know could hurt them — and how should parents respond? In this episode, Mark and Wayne discuss the motivations behind dangerous teen behavior, from reckless decisions to substance use and other high-risk activities. Mark shares practical guidance for setting healthy boundaries, enforcing meaningful consequences and staying relational while addressing harmful choices. He also explains why understanding the heart behind a teen's behavior is just as important as correcting the behavior itself. Tune in for biblical wisdom and practical tools to help your teen navigate risk while growing in responsibility and maturity.

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In today's episode, Mark tackles some tough questions sent in by a family raising a teen with complex behavioral and emotional struggles. Diving into these real-life challenges, Mark shares how to navigate risky behavior, set boundaries that actually work and find consequences that motivate change. He also addresses how to handle vulgarity and threats at home, when to seek new counseling options and what to do when it feels like nothing is making an impact. With practical advice and a relational approach, Mark offers hope and strategies for parents feeling overwhelmed with their struggling teens.

Have a...

Why does your teen seem like one person at home and another at school? Mark and Wayne explore the inner conflict many adolescents experience as they try to reconcile the values they've been taught with the pressures of today's culture. Mark explains why this tension is a normal part of growing up, how parents can avoid pushing their teens away with shame or criticism, and why walking alongside them is far more effective than lecturing from a distance. Tune in for practical encouragement on helping your teen navigate life's competing influences while strengthening their faith, confidence and relationship with...

Are you quick to offer your opinion, or do you help your teen see life from a broader perspective? In this episode, Mark shares two personal stories that transformed the way he views life's disappointments and hardships. Through humor, loss and unexpected moments of gratitude, Mark explains why perspective often matters more than having the right answer. He also challenges parents to move beyond lectures and opinions, offering the kind of wisdom that helps teens navigate life's challenges with resilience, gratitude and hope. Tune in for an encouraging reminder that a change in perspective can change everything.

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Every journey through the teenage years comes with some bumps in the road. In this episode, Mark welcomes two teens from Heartlight who open up about what happens when life feels overwhelming and mistakes start to pile up. From hiding pain behind risky choices to wrestling with family expectations and the fear of letting loved ones down, their stories are honest and incredibly relatable. Listen in to hear how, even after setbacks and false starts, these young women are finding their way — with a little help from second chances, family support and learning to forgive themselves.

For mo...

Raising a son is about more than helping him grow up — it's about helping him become the man God created him to be. In this episode, Mark and Wayne explore the unique challenges and opportunities of parenting boys through the adolescent years. Mark explains why boys often communicate differently than girls, how healthy independence is a sign of growth and why responsibility, meaningful conversations and shared experiences are essential in shaping a young man's character. Tune in for practical encouragement on strengthening your relationship with your son and guiding him confidently from boyhood to manhood.

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In this Q&A episode, Mark dives into the growing distance between grandparents and grandkids, offering advice for bridging the generational gap and fostering real connection. He also addresses the pain of strained relationships when kids pull away after divorce, sharing how parents can invite — not force — closeness while staying open to change themselves. Listeners will hear guidance on setting healthy boundaries with teens, especially when it comes to letting go as they become young adults. Finally, Mark talks through the difficult issue of teens who struggle with lying, providing tools for holding them accountable while encouraging honesty and grow...

Do you feel like every conversation with your teen ends in frustration — or silence? In this episode, Mark and Wayne share eight practical strategies for improving communication with today’s adolescents. From listening more and correcting less to asking better questions and avoiding judgment, Mark explains how small shifts in your approach can open the door to deeper conversations. He also addresses the role technology plays in family communication and challenges parents to model the kind of engagement they hope to see in their teens.

Getting your teen to open up is great, but what happens when you...

Every parent wants to protect their child from pain. But what if some of life's greatest lessons come through it? Mark shares a personal story that transformed the way he thinks about pain and parenting. He explains how emotional pain often drives unhealthy behaviors, why teens sometimes make destructive choices simply to find relief and how parents can avoid rescuing their children too quickly. Instead, he encourages families to see pain as an opportunity for growth, maturity and deeper dependence on God. Tune in for a fresh perspective on helping your teen grow stronger through life's inevitable challenges.

Teens don't always know how to work through big emotions like hurt, rejection or anger. Their inner pain often spills outward, resulting in some poor choices. In today's show, Mark talks with two young ladies at Heartlight, including Amber, who talks about how being adopted and feeling rejected by her birth parents left a deep void, one she tried to fill with unhealthy relationships and rebellion. These young women both discovered that real acceptance can’t be found in taking risks or seeking approval from others — it starts with healing on the inside. Listen in for an honest look at w...

As marijuana becomes more accepted in today’s culture, many parents are wondering how to respond when their teen is exposed to it — or begins using it. In this episode, Mark and Wayne discuss the growing prevalence of teen marijuana use and why the issue often runs deeper than the drug itself. Mark explains how anxiety, depression, peer pressure and the desire to escape emotional pain can drive substance use, and why parents should focus on the underlying struggle, not just the behavior. Tune in for practical guidance on approaching this difficult conversation with truth, wisdom and compassion.

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