Parenting Today's Teens
The Parenting Today's Teens Podcast is a daily resource for parents raising teenagers. Hosted by Mark Gregston, a parenting expert with over 45 years of experience, it offers practical advice for navigating challenges like defiance and emotional issues. Episodes are co-hosted by Courtney LaFleur, a licensed professional counselor, providing professional insights. The podcast aims to help parents build stronger relationships with their teens and understand today's adolescent culture.
Episodes
I Mustache Mark a Question: School Stress, Teenage Values and Communication Breakdowns
In this week's Q&A episode, Mark dives into some more tough questions parents are facing with their teens right now. He talks through practical ways to support a daughter struggling in school and experiencing anxiety, and how to help an unmotivated college student who’s stepped back from faith. Mark also unpacks what to do if your teenager refuses to communicate with an overseas parent, and ho
Feeling Distant From Your Teen? Start Here
Do you feel like there’s a growing gap between you and your teen? In this episode, Mark and Wayne discuss practical ways parents can strengthen connection during the adolescent years. From improving communication and adjusting expectations to establishing healthy boundaries and shifting from teaching to training, Mark shares insights that can help parents stay engaged when relationships begin to f
The Recipe for a Strong Parent-Teen Relationship
In a world filled with pressure, anxiety and constant demands, does your home feel like a place of rest for your teen? In this episode, Mark shares a devotional on creating a home environment where teens feel safe, supported and understood. Using the analogy of a favorite recipe, Mark unpacks key ingredients for stronger relationships, including shared experiences, encouraging messages, meaningful
Teen Stories: Struggling in Isolation
It's easy to think that anger, rebellion or pulling away is just part of being a teenager. But sometimes, it’s a sign of feeling lost or desperately wanting to belong. In today’s episode, Mark talks with two young ladies from Heartlight as they open up about family conflict, the pressure to fit in and hiding pain behind a happy face. Both share how trying to fill their emptiness with parties, perf
When Bad Behavior Points to Something Deeper
When teens act out, most parents focus on the behavior. But what if the behavior is only a symptom of something deeper? In this episode, Mark and Wayne explore how loss, disappointment, rejection, unmet expectations and emotional wounds often fuel the choices parents find most frustrating. Mark explains why every behavior has a purpose and how identifying the pain beneath the struggle can help par
I Mustache Mark a Question: Boundaries, Broken Trust and Building Resilient Teens
In this week's Q&A episode, Mark sits down to address some real-life struggles parents are facing with their teens today. He tackles tough listener questions on topics like helping teens who feel hopeless about graduation, navigating the challenges of parenting neurodivergent kids who are glued to their screens, and how to respond when you discover your teen is making choices that deeply impac
Is Your Teen Leading a Double Life?
In this thought-provoking episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur explore the common phenomenon of teens presenting different versions of themselves at home, at school and online. They discuss why this “double life” is a normal part of adolescent development, how the pressures of modern culture and social media impact teens’ search for identity, and what warning signs parent
Perspective: The Parenting Tool Teens Need Most
Today’s teens have access to more information than any generation before them, but information alone doesn’t produce wisdom. In this episode, Mark shares why one of the most valuable gifts parents can offer is perspective. Through a memorable story involving a Taylor Swift concert and a lesson from his granddaughter, Mark explores how seeing the bigger picture can change everything. He also unpack
Teen Stories: What's Behind a Brave Face
Many teens put on a brave face while chaos brews underneath. In this episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens who know what it's like to hide their struggles behind a mask. Santana, for example, bottled up his emotions and masked his true self to avoid disappointing those he loved, especially his parents. These teens felt lost until tough circumstances forced them to confront what they’d
Becoming a Safe Place for Your Grandkids
Grandparents have a unique opportunity to offer teens something many are desperately searching for — a safe place to rest, feel loved and be heard. In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur discuss the special mentoring role grandparents can play during the teen years. Rather than becoming “parents on steroids,” grandparents are encouraged to create a home marked by wa
I Mustache Mark a Question: Navigating Entitlement, Controversy and Growing Up
In this Q&A episode, Mark dives into a range of real-life parenting challenges sent in by listeners. He tackles questions about handling disrespect and entitlement from older teens, setting healthy dating boundaries, and navigating tough conversations when teens are exposed to controversial or harmful views. Mark also addresses issues like sibling resentment in adoptive families, managing tech
Creating a Home Where Teens Feel Safe to Be Themselves
Today’s teens are surrounded by filtered images, fake personas and pressure to appear perfect. What they’re really searching for is something genuine. In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur discuss how authenticity, vulnerability, and honesty create deeper connection between parents and teens. You’ll hear practical insight on how parents can model healthy communicat
Are You Helping Your Teen — Or Judging Them?
Could your attempts to help your teen actually feel like judgment to them? In this episode, Mark shares a devotional about the difference between offering help and communicating criticism. Using a personal story involving a dying llama, Mark illustrates how timing, tone and understanding can completely change how a message is received. He challenges parents to rethink constant correction, repeated
Teen Stories: Trying to Fit In
Teens can go to extremes when trying to break free from loneliness, pain or feeling invisible. In this episode, we share interviews with two Heartlight teens who open up about what really drove their risky choices. From cheating and sneaking out to chasing acceptance in all the wrong places, both guests share how family struggles and emotional isolation left them aching for connection. You’ll hear
The Conversation Parents Can’t Avoid
If parents don’t talk to their teens about sex, someone else will. In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur discuss how parents can create healthy, ongoing conversations about sex, relationships, boundaries and God’s design for intimacy. Rather than one awkward “talk,” they encourage parents to build an atmosphere where questions, honesty and guidance are welcomed wit
I Mustache Mark a Question: Phones, Friendships and Finding Trust with Your Teen
In this week's Q&A episode, Mark explores how to gradually transfer control to teens as they get older while maintaining healthy boundaries and connection. He answers listener questions on issues ranging from vaping, video game addiction and bullying to handling emotional struggles and technology boundaries. With an emphasis on relationship over control, Mark offers practical strategies for pa
Correcting Common Communication Mistakes With Your Teen
Do your teens feel heard … or just managed, corrected and talked at? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur explore why listening is one of the most important skills parents can develop during the teen years. They discuss common communication mistakes, how judgment and constant correction shut teens down and practical ways to create safer, deeper conversations at ho
The Parenting Skill That Changes Everything
What if one simple change could transform the relationships inside your home? In this episode, Mark shares why listening may be one of the most powerful — and most overlooked — tools in parenting. In a world filled with interruptions, quick opinions and constant noise, many teens simply want someone who will slow down long enough to truly hear them. Mark unpacks common habits that damage communica
Teen Stories: Turning Rock Bottom into a Turning Point
When teens spiral into destructive behaviors, it's rarely just about "bad choices." There's usually deep pain pushing them there. In this episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens who share how they hit their lowest points with addiction, self-harm and rebellion. Both guests get real about what it’s like to hit rock bottom and realize you can’t do it alone. Listen in as they share how conf
The Hidden Damage of Social Media Drama
What happens when social media turns everyday teenage drama into nonstop emotional pressure? In this episode, Mark, Wayne Shepherd and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur discuss the emotional toll of mean girls, online bullying, gossip, exclusion and comparison culture. You’ll hear practical insight on helping daughters navigate insecurity, friendship struggles and the pressure to fit in — whil
I Mustache Mark a Question: Boundaries, Loss and Letting Go
On today’s Q&A episode, Mark tackles a variety of real issues families face with teens, including anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship struggles and the pitfalls of entitlement. We'll discuss healthy ways to set boundaries with older teens, how to handle issues of entitlement and responsibility, and the importance of maintaining strong relationships as your teens grow into adulthoo
What’s Standing Between You and Your Teen?
Why do some parent-teen relationships slowly drift apart — even when both sides still care deeply? In this episode, Mark and Wayne unpack some of the biggest barriers that can damage connection with teens, including misunderstanding, overly strict rules, constant correction, unrealistic expectations and discipline without relationship. You’ll also hear Andrew’s story of anger, isolation, drug use
Why Teens Need Someone Who Will Listen
Could one simple parenting skill completely change your relationship with your teen? In this episode, Mark shares why listening may be the most powerful way to connect with today’s adolescents. In a culture full of noise, opinions and constant reactions, many teens feel unheard — even in their own homes. Mark offers practical wisdom on how to listen without interrupting, correcting or rushing to f
Teen Stories: Alone in a Crowd
Sometimes, being surrounded by people isn’t enough to shake off the feeling of isolation. In this episode, Mark chats with two teens from Heartlight who know that struggle all too well. Despite their different backgrounds, both have battled feelings of being “not enough” — whether it’s from family issues, school stress or just trying to find their place in the world. You’ll hear how trying to keep
What Your Teen Wishes You Would Hear
Could the biggest change in your relationship with your teen begin with simply listening better? In this episode, Mark and Wayne explore why today’s teens are desperate to feel heard, and why many stop talking when they believe no one is truly listening. You’ll learn practical ways to move from correcting and lecturing to understanding and connecting. Plus, a Heartlight teen shares her story of hi
I Mustache Mark a Question: Church Disconnection and Being an Example of Christ
In today's episode, Mark addresses one of the most pressing concerns among Christian parents: what to do when teens begin to struggle with or question their faith. Many teens, especially those facing trauma or feeling like they don't fit in, may not respond to traditional spiritual approaches. Mark discusses the critical transition from concrete to abstract thinking during adolescence and emphasiz
Teaching, Training and Transferring Faith
How do you help your teen build a faith that truly becomes their own? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur discuss why parents must move from simply teaching faith to gradually transferring ownership of it to their teens. You’ll hear practical wisdom on creating safe conversations around doubt, church and spiritual questions without losing relationship or influenc
When Parenting Feels Like Rejection
What if your teen’s struggles are also revealing something deeper in you? In this episode, Mark shares a deeply personal devotional about rejection, failure and the lifelong journey toward authenticity. Reflecting on being fired twice — including just months before starting Heartlight — Mark explains how painful experiences exposed unresolved issues in his own heart. He challenges parents to stop
Teen Stories: When Life Feels Too Heavy
Sometimes, the pain teens carry becomes so overwhelming that they feel there’s no way out. In today’s show, we share Mark's interviews with two young women at Heartlight who both faced those darkest moments and attempted to take their own lives. One shares about the weight of bullying, rocky family relationships and feeling invisible, while the other opens up about grief, rejection and years of fe
Don’t Panic When Teens Question God
What should parents do when teens begin questioning faith, church or even God Himself? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur discuss why doubt and questioning are often a normal part of spiritual growth during adolescence. Rather than responding with fear or control, parents are encouraged to stay relational, listen well and model authentic faith through their acti
I Mustache Mark a Question: Self-Esteem, Scary Shows and Communication Struggles
On today’s episode, Mark tackles some more real struggles parents face with their teens — from communication breakdowns and self-esteem issues to handling bad influences and tough questions about when scary shows are age-appropriate. He shares actionable strategies to build stronger connections, shift from lecturing to listening and create an environment where teens feel understood, not judged. Re
Why Teens Stop Talking to Parents
Why do some teens shut down? And what can parents do to help them open up again? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur explore why many teens stay silent out of fear, shame, anxiety or feeling misunderstood. You’ll learn practical ways to build trust, create emotional safety and connect without turning every conversation into correction or interrogation. Plus, Alex
Raising Teens in a World Working Against Them
Why does parenting teens today feel harder than ever before? In this episode, Mark shares a devotional about raising teens in a culture that often pulls them away from truth, connection and stability. From anxiety and social pressure to screens, identity confusion and shifting values, today’s teens are navigating challenges previous generations never faced. Mark encourages parents not to panic — b
Teen Stories: Longing to Belong
Every teen craves a sense of belonging — sometimes even more than they realize. In this episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight residents who share how they faced isolation, family struggles, depression and choices that spiraled out of control. Both girls describe growing up in families where connection with a parent felt out of reach, whether lost in busyness or overshadowed by life's upheava
Does Your Teen Need Counseling?
What if counseling could become one of the greatest gifts you give your teen? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur discuss why counseling isn’t just for teens in crisis. Sometimes, a trusted voice outside the family can help teens process pain, understand their behavior and find hope in ways parents alone cannot. You’ll also hear Jack’s story of healing, vulnerabi
I Mustache Mark a Question: Social Struggles, Risky Texts and Self-Expression
Ever feel like you're on the outside looking in? For lots of teens, fitting in feels like a full-time job — and sometimes, the pressure to belong pushes them into some tough spots. In this Q&A episode, Mark tackles more real-life questions from parents facing the complexities of raising adolescents today. Covering topics such as teens’ technology use and privacy, navigating anxiety and lon
Raising Financially Responsible Teens
Are you preparing your teen to handle money — or unintentionally making them dependent on you? In this episode, Mark and Wayne tackle one of the most overlooked life skills: financial responsibility. From entitlement and allowance to jobs, debt and real-world consequences, they unpack why teens need to learn how money works now, not later. You’ll discover practical ways to teach earning, saving, s
The Damage of Perfectionistic Parenting
Could your teen feel like they have to be perfect to earn your approval? In this episode, Mark shares a devotional on how well-meaning parents can unintentionally communicate pressure, criticism and impossible expectations. Mark explains why many teens interpret encouragement as judgment, standards as rejection and correction as proof they’re never enough. He also offers a healthier path forward,
Teen Stories: Getting a Fresh Start
Sometimes, the hardest battles teens face happen silently — loneliness, insecurity and the pressure to escape pain. On this episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight residents who share how changing their environments — and the people around them — helped them break free from destructive cycles. Both teens describe being swept up in drug use as a way to cope with things they couldn’t change at h
Teen Runaways: What Parents Need to Know
Few things shake a parent more than realizing their teen has run away. In this episode, Mark and Wayne explore the deeper reasons teens leave home. Often, they’re running from pain, conflict, shame or consequences — or running to freedom, attention or a place they believe feels better. You’ll learn how to respond wisely when your teen returns, what family patterns may need to change, and how grace
I Mustache Mark a Question: Grief, Guardianship and Growing Up Too Soon
When family life gets complicated, teens can feel lost, misunderstood or pushed away. In today's show, Mark answers questions from listeners facing challenging family situations, including coping with the loss of a parent, handling strained relationships after divorce and supporting young adults battling addiction. For parents dealing with these challenging situations, self-reflection, healthy
How to Get Your Teen to Actually Listen
Do your conversations with your teen turn into debates, shutdowns or eye rolls? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur explore why teens often resist opinions, but still deeply need your wisdom. Learn how to replace lectures with perspective, listen in ways that draw your teen out, and use your life experiences to guide rather than control. You’ll also hear a powerf
Relationship Is Your Greatest Legacy
What will your teen remember most about you years from now? In this episode, Mark shares a devotional on legacy, influence and the power of relationship. While many parents focus on rules, performance or getting everything right, Mark reminds us that what lasts longest is connection. He explores why listening matters, how love can remain strong even through disagreements and why your relationship
Teen Stories: From Hiding Hurt to Finding Healing
Pushing parents away or being disrespectful usually isn’t about just being rebellious. Sometimes, it’s a defense — a way to survive when trust has been broken or home life feels like a battleground. In today’s episode, Mark talks with two teens from Heartlight who open up about keeping people at arm’s length, struggling with anger and wrestling with family changes that left them feeling alone. Bot
When Your Teen Doesn’t Want to Go to School
Is school only about grades — or is there something more important your teen is learning there? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur explore the bigger purpose of school. From social development and resilience to responsibility and real-world skills, education goes far beyond academics. They also discuss what to do when your teen resists school, how to uncover wha
I Mustache Mark a Question: Family Friction, Fearful Teens and Finding Respect
In today's show, Mark tackles some more of the most pressing and complex questions parents face with their teenagers today. From addressing issues of lying and integrity, to navigating sibling conflicts and strained parent-teen relationships, Mark offers practical wisdom rooted in experience and compassion. Today's questions explore how to approach teens struggling with anxiety and fear of
What Your Teen Needs Most from You, Dad
What kind of impact does a father really have on a teen’s life? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur talk about the unique and powerful role dads play in shaping their teens’ identity, confidence and sense of worth. You’ll hear how time, presence and genuine interest can transform even strained relationships. When dads show up — especially in the small, everyday m
A Parent’s Greatest Challenge
Are you trying to guide your teen? Or just frustrated by the culture they’re growing up in? In this episode, Mark shares what may be the greatest challenge parents face today: staying connected in a rapidly changing world. It’s easy to criticize the next generation, but that often pushes teens further away. Mark unpacks five practical ways to build real connection, from showing genuine interest to
Teen Stories: The Battle to Be Understood
Behind every broken rule or secret kept, there’s often a story of a teen who just wants to be seen. In today’s episode, Mark sits down with two young ladies at Heartlight who open up about their struggles with honesty, their search for acceptance and the ways family dynamics shaped their choices. Whether it’s sneaking around out of fear of rejection or using substances as a way to fit in, they rem
Raising Socially Awkward Teens
Is your teen struggling to connect with others or retreating into screens instead of real relationships? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur talk about what’s behind social awkwardness in today’s teens. From constant digital entertainment to lack of real-life interaction, many teens are missing the experiences that build confidence and connection. You’ll learn ho
I Mustache Mark a Question: Respect, Identity Struggles and Building Real Relationships
Every teen faces tough questions about who they are, but for some, the journey is especially complicated. In today's Q&A episode, topics range from navigating conversations about gender identity and supporting teens with dyslexia, to handling anger, anxiety and the impact of listening to explicit music. Mark also shares insights on the right age for teens to start dating, how to foster res
When Your Teen Thinks Differently Than You
What’s shaping your teen’s beliefs, and why do they sometimes latch onto ideas that create tension at home? In this episode, Mark and Wayne unpack how today’s teens are influenced by culture, peers and a deep desire to belong. When teens adopt strong opinions or causes, it’s often less about the issue and more about identity and connection. You’ll learn how to respond without overreacting, keep co
When Helping Hurts: Teaching Teens to Carry Their Own Load
Are you helping your teen — or holding them back? In this episode, Mark shares a powerful story about a young adult unprepared for real life, and the well-meaning parenting that led her there. Drawing from Galatians 6:5, Mark challenges parents to rethink overprotecting, overproviding and over-involving. Because somewhere along the way, every teen must learn to carry their own load. If you’ve ever
Teen Stories: Feeling the Pressure
When teens seem to have it all — good grades, bright smiles, great families — it's easy for parents to assume things are fine. But what if that perfect image is masking deeper struggles? In today's episode, Mark talks with two teens at Heartlight who reveal the hidden pressures they faced beneath their outward appearances. For one young lady, being the youngest of seven in a loving home di
Breaking Patterns, Building Trust & Beating Boredom
As summer break draws closer, we’re revisiting an episode with Mark and Wayne about setting your teen up for success. Boredom isn’t harmless — it can open the door to unhealthy habits if teens lack structure and purpose. Mark shares practical ways to create balance through responsibility, work and meaningful family connection. You’ll also hear from Jared, a teen at Heartlight, who explains how add
I Mustache Mark a Question: Parenting Older Teens, Independence and Consequences
In today’s Q&A episode, Mark tackles some more pressing parenting questions — covering everything from keeping tabs on your teen’s whereabouts and managing screen time, to introducing godly sexuality, fostering independence and knowing when to step in as a parent. Mark also offers practical wisdom on allowing teens to make mistakes and learn through consequences, balancing discipline with affi
Quit Correcting. Start Connecting.
If you feel like you’re losing connection with your teen, you’re not alone and you’re not without hope. In this episode, Mark and Wayne unpack one of the most critical needs in adolescence: relationship. Mark shares why disconnection is often the root of rebellion and how small shifts in your parenting can make a lasting impact. You’ll learn three essential changes every parent must make during th
Influenced by Encouragement
Behind every teen's story is a series of voices that shape the way they see themselves — either building them up or tearing them down. In today's show, Mark shares his own memories of the people who spoke life and wisdom into him during his youth, as well as the impact those positive relationships had on his journey. Whether you're a parent, grandparent or mentor, you'll be inspire
Teen Stories: The Disconnection Dilemma
Many of today’s teens are searching for where they fit in. Sometimes they pull away from family, dive too deep into the digital world or don't know how to reach out for help. On this episode, Mark sits down with two young ladies from Heartlight who get honest about feeling misunderstood and cut off — whether that came from changing schools, substance use or hours spent glued to a phone. They r
The Cost of Fitting In
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 fu
I Mustache Mark a Question: Handling Teen Drama and Risky Choices
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 f
Searching for Connection: Why Your Teen Turns to Drugs
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
The Power of Influence: Overcoming Negativity
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 con
Teen Stories: When You Don't Feel Worthy
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 unhe
Addressing the Fear Factor
Many teens today carry invisible burdens of fear and anxiety — sometimes not even fully understanding where those feelings come from. On this episode, Mark sits down with Abby, a Heartlight resident, who candidly shares how growing up in a community plagued by danger and uncertainty shaped her outlook on life. As she talks about overcoming trauma, anxiety and the expectations placed on her by thos
I Mustache Mark a Question: Setting Rules, Seeking Connection and Staying Calm
Every teen has a deep need to belong — and sometimes that longing drives them to choices and behaviors that leave parents frustrated and confused. In today's Q&A episode, Mark addresses questions about teens who don’t seem to learn from consequences, navigating tough cell phone rules and how to cultivate calmness even when parents' buttons are pushed. With practical wisdom and a compas
Shut Your Mouth, Open Your Ears
In this episode, Mark and Wayne discuss one of the most overlooked parenting tools: listening. They explore why teens often tune out when parents talk too much, how today’s digital world has transformed family communication and why creating a listening atmosphere is more crucial than ever. Mark shares practical advice on valuing your teen’s heart over short-term corrections, the importance of timi
Understanding the ‘Why’ Behind Teen Outbursts
Every parent is bound to face a moment when their teen’s anger seems to explode out of nowhere. But as Mark explains in today’s episode, there’s always more beneath the surface. Whether it’s a struggle for control, a response to feeling judged or just sheer frustration from not getting what they want, teens’ anger is almost always tied to deeper needs and hurts. In this episode, Mark unpacks pract
Teen Stories: Finding Yourself Again
What happens when your life starts to spiral and you lose sight of who you are? For many teens, struggles with identity, relationships and loss can lead them down difficult paths. In today's show, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens who open up about feeling lost and disconnected — from themselves and from those they love. For Tiller, losing her sense of purpose led to addiction and a bro
Rescuing or Preparing: Are You Robbing Your Teen?
In this episode, Mark and Wayne tackle the hard truth of “rescuing” teens from life’s painful moments and why this well-intentioned instinct can actually do more harm than good. Through real-life examples and candid discussion, they explore how shielding teens from consequences prevents crucial learning and growth. Listeners will hear practical wisdom on allowing kids to face challenges, holding c
I Mustache Mark a Question: Setting Boundaries With Teens & Young Adults
Does any of this sound familiar? Your college-age daughter wants to move in with her boyfriend against your wishes. Your son fights you on doing his chores and threatens to run away. Your teen is using their phone inappropriately. In this episode, Mark breaks down these real scenarios sent in by listeners and gives practical advice on dealing with disrespect, entitlement and mental health struggle
9 Things Boomers Do to Drive Away Their Children & Grandkids
It’s easy to fall into the trap of criticizing “kids these days.” But how you view the younger generation will shape the kind of relationship you have with them. In this episode, Mark and Wayne are joined by Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur to talk about how parents and grandparents can move beyond criticism and toward meaningful connection with teens. Instead of lectures and assumptions, the
When Your Child's Choices Hurt
In this episode, Mark shares a deeply personal devotional about the challenges parents face when their teens make decisions that go against family values or wound their hearts. Mark explores how parents can maintain meaningful relationships with their children even amid conflict, disappointment and cultural changes. He emphasizes the importance of listening, asking thoughtful questions and loving
Teen Stories: Looking For Answers
Most struggling teens hold a story inside their hearts: a story of searching, hurt and hope. In today’s episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens who open up about their personal battles with loneliness, depression and not feeling “good enough.” Both teens carried the weight of fractured relationships and unmet needs — one longing for a father’s involvement, the other wrestling with feelin
Decisions That Shape Generations
In this episode, Mark and Wayne talk about the profound impact that tough parenting decisions can have on a family's future. Through personal stories — including Mark's life-saving decision for his daughter decades ago — they explore how setting boundaries, having hard conversations and trusting God's plan can rewrite the story for generations to come. Plus, a Heartlight teen opens up
I Mustache Mark a Question: Respect, Rebellion and Raising Responsible Kids
In today's Q&A episode, Mark tackles some more tough questions submitted by listeners about raising teens and young adults. From dealing with a disrespectful 19-year-old living at home, to concerns about a grandson's lack of motivation, to navigating the complexities of drug use and family dynamics, Mark offers practical advice rooted in years of experience. He addresses the importance
Navigating Teen Romance
In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight counselor Courtney Lafleur tackle teens and dating, exploring what it means for parents to set realistic boundaries and stay involved as their children begin to experience romance. They share relatable stories about early dating experiences, practical advice on age-appropriate guidelines and the importance of open communication to help parents guide teen
Stop Controlling and Start Trusting Your Teen
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
Teen Stories: Out of Control
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 inf
Are You Passing on Bad Habits to Your Teens?
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 jo
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