In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions sent in by parents, addressing concerns such as an adopted teen dismissing consequences and a daughter secretly experimenting with drugs despite maintaining a perfect façade at school. He explores the possibility that such behaviors might be cries for help, stemming from a need for validation or a fear of rejection. For practical tips on encouraging value and self-worth in teens while maintaining a supportive, understanding relationship, listen now!

Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Fostering open communication in families is crucial. As parents, our role includes creating spaces where our kids feel safe and heard. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd delve into what teens secretly wish their parents knew about them but often feel unable to express. Through heartfelt stories and insightful discussions, they offer parents practical advice on how to create a nurturing environment where teens feel safe to share their deepest thoughts and feelings. Remember, it's not about being perfect parents but about being present and receptive — tune in now!

For more help understanding your teen's behavior, check out our free "Tough Guys and Drama Queens" e-course! Enroll today at bit.ly/3PtDGxl

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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Legacy isn't about big achievements — it's about the emotional and spiritual support you provide to your family that resonates through generations. Investing in those relationships is one of the most important things you can do! In today's show, Mark dives deep into the essence of cultivating meaningful relationships with your teens and how these interactions form the backbone of a lasting legacy. He emphasizes the importance of listening, understanding and truly connecting with your teen. Tune in now!

For more on cultivating meaningful relationships with your teens, check out our free "Five Ways to Stay Engaged With Your Teen" e-course! Enroll now at bit.ly/stay-engaged-course

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 www.ChristianParenting.org

For some teens, rebellion might be a way of testing limits with their parents, but oftentimes, there's something deeper going on behind the scenes. In today's episode, Mark sits down with two teens from Heartlight, including one young lady who opens up about her battles with depression, the impact of traumatic experiences and issues stemming from being adopted. She reflects on why she defied her adoptive parents' rules and how they're mending the relationship. Listen in!

To find out more about Heartlight, visit heartlightministries.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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Hearing your teen say, "I can do this on my own!" can be conflicting. While it might feel like rebellion or them pushing you away, it's usually a sign of budding independence. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into the journey of nurturing independence in our teenagers. They explore how to recognize and encourage signs of growing autonomy and discuss the delicate balance between guiding and letting go. Listen in for some great insights!

If you've ever lost a furry friend, you know how painful that experience can be. Mark's book, "Where's Stitch?" provides support for families as they walk through losing a pet. Order your copy at wheresstitchbook.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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Parenting has always been challenging, but today's teens encounter unique emotional and developmental hurdles shaped by societal shifts and the influence of digital communication. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston addresses pressing questions from listeners, from managing relationships and navigating the pitfalls of social media use among kids to addressing the psychological needs of those battling depression and ADHD. Whether you're struggling with tech-related issues or searching for the right time to discuss sensitive topics with your teenager, this episode has something for every parent — listen now!

Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Are you struggling to connect with your teenager in a world crowded with texts, social media and generational gaps? In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd tackle the often overlooked but essential art of effective communication with your kid. They discuss the importance of engagement, asking the right questions, and building relationships through consistent and sincere one-on-one time. Remember, it's not about lectures but about establishing a foundation of trust, valuing their opinion and, above all, showing them you care. Don't wait for a crisis to build bridges — tune in now!

For more help understanding your teen's behavior, check out our free "Tough Guys and Drama Queens" e-course! Enroll today at bit.ly/3PtDGxl

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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Parenting is never straightforward, especially when you're thrown curveballs you never saw coming. In today's episode, we’re diving into the struggles parents face when their children go through serious issues. Through personal anecdotes and stories from various families, Mark highlights the initial shock and eventual acceptance that parents experience upon discovering their child's poor choices. He also reflects on his own journey of misunderstanding and ultimately reconnecting with his son during a troubling time. Listen in!

For more help navigating the ups and downs of parenting, check out our Teen Struggle Bundle at bit.ly/struggle-bundle

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 www.ChristianParenting.org

So many teens today are battling anxiety and depression, leaving them vulnerable to self-destructive coping mechanisms. As shown by the impactful interviews in today's show, it's important to create a strong support system at home. Mark sits down with two young ladies from Heartlight, whose discussions shed light on the reasons behind their struggles with anger, depression and substance abuse, and how they are finding new pathways to healing and happiness. Listen in now!

To find out more about the Heartlight program, go to heartlightministries.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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Conflict with our teens isn't just a challenge — it’s an opportunity for growth and learning. In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how facing these moments head-on can lead to a deeper understanding and a stronger relationship with your teen. They offer practical advice on engaging constructively with your teen during tough periods and working through your differences. Whether you're struggling with little day-to-day battles or trying to make big changes, this episode offers guidance on creating a supportive environment where every family member can thrive. Tune in!

For more on effective communication, check out our FREE e-course, "Bridging the Gap With Your Teen," at bit.ly/bridging-the-gap-course

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 www.ChristianParenting.org

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions sent in by parents navigating the turbulent waters of teen romance. Tune in as he discusses tough topics like managing your kid's dating choices when they don't align with family values, addressing crushes that cross religious lines and handling the delicate situation of a teen becoming sexually active. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong, non-judgmental relationship with teens as they journey through their formative romantic experiences. Tune in to gain guidance on how to support your child through the complexities of young love, intimacy and maintaining family connections!

Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: 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 www.ChristianParenting.org