Parenting Today's Teens podcast | Listen online for free

1499 episodes

Stop Controlling and Start Trusting Your Teen
2026/03/18 | 24 mins.
In this eye-opening episode, Mark dives deep into a common parenting dilemma — striking the right balance between guidance and control as teens seek independence. Drawing from a real-life story of a family whose well-intentioned rules backfired, Mark highlights the negative impact that excessive control can have on teenagers. He shares practical wisdom, anecdotes and biblical insights, encouraging parents to loosen their grip and empower their kids to make choices, learn from mistakes and build trust. Don’t miss this vital episode!
If your family is struggling with the transition from teen years to adulthood, be sure to check out this April retreat at parentingtodaysteens.org/event/adulting-past-the-teen-years
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: Out of Control
2026/03/17 | 23 mins.
When life feels unpredictable, teens often seek control in unexpected ways. On today’s episode, Mark sits down with two young women at Heartlight who share how loss and longing for independence shaped their choices. One opens up about the impact of losing her father and the turbulent relationship with her mom that followed, while the other reflects on her drive to grow up too fast and how that influenced her actions. Both stories reveal how the struggle for control can lead to risky decisions — and how stepping back can spark new growth. Don’t miss this honest conversation about grief, self-discovery and what it means to heal together as a family.
Know a young adult who's great with teens? They may be a perfect fit for our Heartlight staff! Go to heartlight.jobs 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.
Are You Passing on Bad Habits to Your Teens?
2026/03/16 | 28 mins.
In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight counselor Courtney Lafleur explore ways parents pass down bad habits to their teens — from being overly critical and avoiding conflict to setting unrealistic expectations. They offer practical advice for recognizing these patterns, reversing their impact and healing parent-teen relationships. We also hear from a Heartlight teen, who bravely shares her journey through addiction, family trauma, and the lessons she's learned about self-worth and breaking cycles. Don't miss these relatable stories and actionable steps for parents to leave a positive legacy for their teens.
Did you know Heartlight offers counseling and experienced residential staff as a resource to help parents walk through challenging times? Learn more at parentingtodaysteens.org/coaching
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: Balancing Boundaries and Building Trust
2026/03/13 | 32 mins.
In this episode, Mark tackles some more tough questions parents are asking about raising teens in today's rapidly changing world. From navigating conversations about sexuality and social media's impact on relationships, to setting boundaries around concerts, vaping and modesty, Mark offers practical wisdom and heartfelt advice. You'll hear insights into why teens struggle with connection, how the cultural landscape influences their choices and the importance of maintaining open dialogue — even when topics feel uncomfortable.
Have a parenting problem? Ask Mark about it — your question may be featured on the show! Go to markgregston.com to submit it.
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.
Mean Girls, Social Media and Building Resilience
2026/03/12 | 26 mins.
In this episode, Heartlight counselor Courtney Lafleur joins Mark and Wayne to tackle the issue of "mean girl" culture and the impact of social media on teenage girls. They discuss how bullying, exclusion, gossip and unrealistic online standards can deeply affect a teen's mental health and self-worth. The episode features a candid interview with a teen who opens up about her personal struggles with substance abuse, coping with pain and how Heartlight provided the supportive environment she needed to turn her life around. Be sure to tune in!
Another issue many girls face online is overexposure to seductive lifestyles. Learn four ways parents can address immodesty with their teen at parentingtodaysteens.org/articles/modesty-and-my-daughter-2
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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