Influenced by Encouragement

Influenced by Encouragement

Author: Mark Gregston April 15, 2026 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 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 inspired to become that steady presence who listens, encourages and points the next generation toward hope. Listen in!

Encouraging words are a long-lasting investment in your teens. Creating an atmosphere of gratitude at home is too. Find out more: parentingtodaysteens.org/articles/creating-a-thankful-home-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.


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
Searching for Connection: Why Your Teen Turns to Drugs [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:28
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 traum…
The Power of Influence: Overcoming Negativity [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:34
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 wh…
Teen Stories: When You Don't Feel Worthy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 25:20
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 Heartligh…
Addressing the Fear Factor [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:14
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…
Shut Your Mouth, Open Your Ears [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:15
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 communicat…
Understanding the ‘Why’ Behind Teen Outbursts [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 18:52
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 res…
Teen Stories: Finding Yourself Again [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:01
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…
Rescuing or Preparing: Are You Robbing Your Teen? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 15:47
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 disc…