Parenting Today's Teens

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

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

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

In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the valuable role grandparents play in their grandchildren’s lives. They emphasize that involvement is a choice that offers a unique opportunity for connection, highlighting how grandparents can provide perspective and share wisdom that benefits younger generations. Tune in for practical advice on how grandparents can actively engage...

In this episode, Mark offers a heartfelt message inspired by 1 John 3:8, urging parents to prioritize actions over words when raising their children. He emphasizes that teaching through example is far more impactful than simply giving instructions. Parents should focus on encouraging their teens rather than being overly critical, as constant criticism can be misinterpreted. Mark reminds us that ev...

Navigating trauma or family conflicts can often lead to teens shutting people out due to overwhelming emotions. Being isolated may seem "safer" to them, but it's a lonely place to be. In today's show, Mark sits down with two young men from Heartlight who reflect on why they kept people at arm's length. For Asa, everything started with a tragic incident in his childhood. He reve...

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share insights from Mark's decades of experience working with thousands of teens. Surprisingly, Mark has encountered only a handful of truly rebellious teens — which might be the case for your child, too. This conversation explores the key difference between a teen who is lost and one who is rebellious, and why understanding this distinction ca...

In this Q&A episode, Mark Gregston tackles common parenting dilemmas, offering valuable insights and strategies for dealing with teens who don't respond to consequences, monitoring cell phone usage and fostering open communication. Mark emphasizes the importance of understanding the motivations behind a teen's behavior and adjusting parenting approaches accordingly. Whether it's gr...

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the importance of being intentional in your parenting — as you prepare your child for the future, while staying true to your values and convictions. Mark highlights how parents can unintentionally compromise their beliefs and offers guidance on choosing compassion and understanding. Together, Mark and Wayne remind us that, as children of...

Join Mark Gregston as he answers a listener’s question on entitlement and teens. Mark explains why entitlement is an issue every family with teens will face and explores why today’s teens may feel more entitled than ever. Drawing from Luke 15, listen as he offers practical, actionable advice that parents can start using today to help navigate this common parenting challenge. Visit parentingtodayst...

Many teens feel the pressure to look like they "have it all together" — but secretly, they're struggling with self-doubt and worry about what others think. But as we hear in today's show, those struggles and imperfections can also lead to connection. Mark chats with two more teens from Heartlight, including Harrison, who opens up about his battle with self-doubt and the path he too...

Join Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd as they discuss how today’s teens are overwhelmed by information and struggle to distinguish it from true wisdom. Mark encourages parents to recognize the value of their own wisdom and offers tips on presenting it in an engaging, relatable way that teens can connect with. To see if Heartlight Ministries can help your struggling teen, visit heartlightministries...

In today’s Q&A episode, Mark Gregston tackles tough parenting questions, from a senior son disengaging from school and parental disagreements over substance use to post-divorce relationships and a child rejecting family values. He provides wisdom on respecting your teen's journey to adulthood, tackling tough relationship dynamics and understanding the importance of purpose and security for...

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the importance of addressing the root causes of conflict with your teen, rather than just focusing on their behavior. They share examples of losses teens may face that cause them to act out, and offer advice on how to help them overcome these challenges. Mark emphasizes that helping your teen process their loss is more important than try...

Join Mark Gregston as he reflects on Matthew 11:28 and explores the importance of rest in creating a peaceful home for your teen. He shares how strategies that worked during the pre-teen years may no longer be effective, and reveals the key elements you need to connect with your teenager. Mark challenges parents to create a safe space at home where their teen can find relief from the pressures of...

It can be difficult to admit when you need help — at any age. As we hear in this episode, lots of teens at Heartlight struggle at first with accepting the support and tools that the program offers. Today, Mark chats with two young ladies who've walked through trauma and struggles with their mental health, but are learning the importance of self-care and seeking support. Meredith recounts her d...

Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share practical tips for parents looking to strengthen their connection with their teen. They emphasize flexibility, age-appropriate approaches and the importance of seeking God first. This episode also highlights the value of open communication and understanding during the teen years. Tune in for actionable advice to build a deeper bond with your teen today! Visit...

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston dives deep into some of the most pressing questions sent in by listeners. From dealing with the complexities of college decisions and living arrangements to managing behavioral issues and entitlement, Mark offers practical advice and strategies grounded in core beliefs and values. He discusses how drawing a line in the sand, facing entitlement and allowing natural...

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the impact of yelling at your teen and what it reveals about you as a parent. They highlight Proverbs 15:1 and the importance of listening to your teen’s heart to strengthen your relationship. Mark and Wayne also share strategies for using conflict as an opportunity for positive change and offer practical tips for handling conversations mor...

In this episode, Mark Gregston uses 1 John 3:18 to encourage parents to do the right thing in their relationships. Sharing a personal story, he discusses how unresolved anger can affect those around us and emphasizes the importance of making things right. Mark also offers practical steps to help restore and strengthen family bonds. Tune in to learn how you can be the key to deepening and redeeming...

So many of today's teens experience depression and feelings of hopelessness — the voice of their inner critic can be a hard one to silence. In today's negative culture, it's more important than ever to support them! In this episode, Mark sits down with two teens from Heartlight, including Matt, who has struggled with his mental health. He opens up about the heated arguments and misunde...

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd offer encouragement to parents of adopted children. Adoption is a beautiful gift to be celebrated! They reassure parents that seasons of disconnect are temporary — love will prevail. With patience, trust and God’s guidance, parents can navigate their child’s questions and challenges, knowing He placed them in their family for a purpose. Is your tee...

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston addresses a variety of pressing concerns that parents face, from managing inappropriate group texting in young children to navigating complex family dynamics involving domestic violence, mental health issues and sexual orientation. Mark provides thoughtful, practical advice on establishing rules and consequences while maintaining open, rewarding relationships with...

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd warn parents not to become disconnected in the midst of life’s pressures and to not drift away from their teens, even though teens still deeply desire time with their parents. Mark encourages parents to stay committed and present, guiding their kids as God guides us, regardless of family conflicts. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the...

In this episode, Mark Gregston delivers a special message for grandparents, drawing wisdom from Hebrews 10:34. Sharing insights from his own experiences, Mark discusses how to embrace the unique role of a grandparent without stepping into the role of a second parent. He also shares his 'Rules of the Road' for grandparenting, offering practical advice to help grandparents thrive in their im...