Parenting Today's Teens podcast | Listen online for free

1477 episodes

Does Your Teen Smile Anymore?
16/2/2026 | 26 mins.
Join Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd today as they discuss what it means when your teen no longer smiles — and why parents shouldn’t ignore it. Mark explains that a missing smile is often a sign of deeper sadness, frustration or depression, and an invitation for parents to lean in with compassion. He encourages parents to respond with humility, honest conversation and a willingness to change. Ultimately, the goal is not to make them smile so you can feel like a better parent, but because you are deeply concerned about their heart.
If you're struggling with your teen, we encourage you to join Mark in Texas at one of his Families in Crisis Conferences. To learn more and register, visit familycrisisretreat.com
Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.

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I Mustache Mark a Question: Rules, Rebellion and Recovery
13/2/2026 | 35 mins.
In today's episode, Mark takes on more of listeners' most pressing questions about parenting adolescents in today’s world — from setting limits on screen time and understanding the difference between rules and boundaries, to getting your teen to actually talk to you (without just one-word answers). He dives into tough issues like teens questioning faith, dealing with challenging behaviors at home and what to do when your older teen won’t step away from unhealthy habits. Tune in for practical, down-to-earth advice that’ll help you connect with your teen and have some fun along the way.
We want to hear your parenting questions! Go to markgregston.com to send them in today — your question may be addressed on a future episode.
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.

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Managing Your Teen's Phone
12/2/2026 | 25 mins.
Managing your teen’s phone use starts with recognizing that phones aren’t just distractions — they’re a primary way teens connect, feel entertained and stay tied to their world. While excessive phone use can interrupt attention, reduce face-to-face relationships and fuel dopamine-driven habits, the technology isn’t going away. So, parents must lead intentionally. Setting age-appropriate boundaries, creating phone-free family times and clearly defining expectations help keep phones from replacing real relationships. Most importantly, parents must model healthy phone habits themselves and create meaningful, engaging connections that teens don’t feel the need to escape from.
Do you have a parenting question for Mark? You can send it to us at markgregston.com.
Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
A Parent’s Most Important Message: 'You Are Enough'
11/2/2026 | 13 mins.
Mark Gregston explains that today’s self-help culture constantly tells kids they’re “not enough,” fueling anxiety, confusion and a relentless pressure to perform. He reminds parents that Scripture points to God’s sufficiency and unconditional grace — our kids don’t need to earn their worth. One of a parent’s most important roles is to consistently communicate, through time, presence and validation, “You are enough.” When children feel fully known, loved and affirmed at home, they’re far less likely to search elsewhere for value.
Explore all of Mark's resources designed to help you as you journey through raising your teens by visiting parentingtodaysteens.org.
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.

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Teen Stories: Fleeing Hurt
10/2/2026 | 20 mins.
Sometimes what looks like rebellion or risky behavior in teens is really just a signal flare for something deeper going on inside. On today’s episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight residents, each with a different story but a similar struggle: trying to fill the emptiness and pain in their lives by acting out. Whether it’s substance use, running away or searching for connection in all the wrong places, they share how unresolved hurt and family disconnect fueled their choices — until a crisis forced them to face what was really going on.
Interested in learning more about the Heartlight residential program? Visit heartlightministries.org today!
Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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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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