Parenting Today's Teens podcast | Listen online for free

1517 episodes

The Cost of Fitting In
13/04/2026 | 27 mins.
Every teen wants to belong somewhere, but for some, the journey to find acceptance comes with a heavy price. In today's episode, Mark visits with a courageous young woman at Heartlight, who shares how bullying, cultural discrimination, and the weight of reputation led her down a difficult path of self-doubt and treatment programs. The longing to fit in can shape choices, identities and even futures. Tune in as Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney help parents understand what's really at stake and how you can become the safe place your teen needs most. Listen in now!
Does your teen hang a “Go away!” sign on his bedroom door? Does she consistently refuse to join the family for shared activities? Here’s what you need to know: parentingtodaysteens.org/articles/6-things-to-know-about-teen-isolation
Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.
I Mustache Mark a Question: Handling Teen Drama and Risky Choices
10/04/2026 | 35 mins.
In this Q&A episode, Mark dives into more pressing questions from parents grappling with the realities of raising teens today. From concerns about vaping, toxic relationships and sibling conflicts to heavy issues like depression and adoption struggles, Mark provides practical advice rooted in experience. He emphasizes the importance of relationship-building, setting respectful boundaries and fostering open conversations — all while reminding parents not to take themselves too seriously. Whether you're navigating the challenges of a rebellious 15-year-old or supporting an adult child through a crisis, this episode offers wisdom and reassurance for any parent seeking to strengthen their family.
Have a parenting question for Mark? We'd love to hear it! Go to markgregston.com to send in your question.
Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.
Searching for Connection: Why Your Teen Turns to Drugs
09/04/2026 | 27 mins.
If you’ve ever wondered why some teens turn to risky behaviors, there’s usually a story beneath the surface. On today’s episode, Mark sits down with Jack, a Heartlight resident who shares his journey through family trauma, isolation and struggles with substance use. Though Jack’s path has been challenging, the common thread is his search for belonging and meaningful relationships. Today, he's working to heal his relationship with his mom and learning the value of opening up in a safe community. Tune in for an inspiring look at how finding connection makes a difference.
If your teen is turning to marijuana in order to get through the day, step in and help immediately. Find out how here: bit.ly/when-your-teen-turns-to-pot
Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.
The Power of Influence: Overcoming Negativity
08/04/2026 | 19 mins.
What shapes a teen’s path through life? So often, it’s the quiet influence of people who stand by them, offering wisdom, encouragement and an open ear. In today’s episode, Mark shares personal stories about the adults who made a difference in his life and reflects on how their positive influence helped him discover purpose and overcome negativity. Drawing from years of experience and heartfelt conversations, Mark reveals the impact of investing in small moments and building trust that lasts. If you’ve ever wondered how to be the person your teen looks up to, this episode offers inspiration and insight to help you become the influencer your child needs. Listen in and learn how thoughtful engagement can change a teen’s destiny!
Want more insights on how to encourage your teen versus criticize? Check out Mark’s article, “How to Motivate an Underachiever” at bit.ly/motivate-an-underachiever
Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.
Teen Stories: When You Don't Feel Worthy
07/04/2026 | 25 mins.
Risky behavior is often more than just "acting out." For many teens, it’s a desperate attempt to fill an inner void or prove themselves to their peers. In today’s episode, Mark sits down with two young men from Heartlight who share their journeys through confusion, addiction and broken trust. They reveal how struggles with perfectionism and feeling "not enough" led them toward unhealthy choices, and how their time at Heartlight helped them confront the real roots of their pain. Tune in to discover how these young men are learning to value themselves and rebuild meaningful relationships.
Is the Heartlight program the right choice for your struggling teen? Go to heartlightministries.org to learn more.
Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.

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About Parenting Today's Teens

The Parenting Today's Teens Podcast is a daily resource for parents raising teenagers. Hosted by Mark Gregston, a renowned parenting expert with over 45 years of experience, this podcast provides practical, expert advice for navigating the challenges of parenting teens. Whether you're struggling with defiance, emotional issues, or just want to understand your teen better, Mark’s guidance is raw, real, and always hopeful.Some episodes are co-hosted by Courtney LaFleur, LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) and on-staff counselor at Heartlight, adding professional counseling insights to the conversation. Together, Mark and Courtney provide expert tips and real-life solutions to help you build stronger relationships with your teen and navigate the complexities of today’s adolescent culture.If you’re looking for guidance on how to connect with your teen, improve family dynamics, and raise a confident, well-adjusted teen, this podcast is for you.For more parenting tools and expert advice, visit www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.Parenting Today's Teens is part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

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