I Mustache Mark a Question: Rules, Rebellion and Recovery

I Mustache Mark a Question: Rules, Rebellion and Recovery

Author: Mark Gregston February 13, 2026 Duration: 35:42

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. 


Raising a teenager can feel like navigating uncharted territory every single day. Parenting Today's Teens is here to walk that path with you, offering a steady voice amid the chaos. Mark Gregston brings more than four decades of direct experience working with families to each conversation, translating complex adolescent behaviors into understandable insights. You’ll hear honest discussions about defiance, screen time, emotional withdrawal, and the search for identity, all framed with a perspective that is both pragmatic and hopeful. This isn’t about quick fixes or perfect formulas; it’s about building a lasting, authentic connection with your teen even when it’s difficult. Mark’s approach is grounded in real-world application, offering strategies you can consider and adapt the very same day. The podcast draws from a well of wisdom that respects the spiritual and personal growth of the entire family, recognizing that parenting a teen often means revisiting your own beliefs and reactions. Tune in for a resource that feels like a thoughtful conversation with a trusted guide, one that acknowledges the struggles while consistently pointing toward practical solutions and renewed understanding for the modern parent.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Parenting Today's Teens
Podcast Episodes
When Your Teen Thinks Differently Than You [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:20
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 b…
When Helping Hurts: Teaching Teens to Carry Their Own Load [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:17
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,…
Teen Stories: Feeling the Pressure [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:53
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 wi…
Breaking Patterns, Building Trust & Beating Boredom [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:22
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.…
Quit Correcting. Start Connecting. [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:42
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…
Influenced by Encouragement [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:39
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…
Teen Stories: The Disconnection Dilemma [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:02
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 youn…
The Cost of Fitting In [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:24
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…