logo
episode-header-image
Nov 2024
25m 20s

Teen Stories: What Sparks Self-Destructi...

MARK GREGSTON
About this episode

Some teens act impulsively because they're seeking adventure — for others, it's a cry for help. In today's show, Mark and Courtney sit down with two teens from Heartlight who engaged in self-destructive behaviors because they weren't sure how to deal with the pain they were feeling. One teen, Katie, opens up about how her parents' divorce at a young age set off a chain of reckless behaviors and substance abuse, ultimately leading her to Heartlight where she found self-worth and motivation to turn her life around. Tune in now!

To learn 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 parentingtodayteens.org.



Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Up next
Aug 22
I Mustache Mark a Question: Anxiety, Attitude and Accountability
In today’s episode, Mark Gregston takes on the real-life questions and struggles sent in by parents just like you. He offers practical wisdom on handling anxiety, depression, substance use, entitlement, the pull of technology and the unique dynamics of split households. Mark stre ... Show More
38m 28s
Aug 21
Raising Socially Awkward Teens
In this episode, Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd, and Courtney Lafleur discuss the growing issue of socially awkward teens and the cultural forces contributing to it — especially isolation caused by screens, gaming and social media. They emphasize that kids today are missing out on ... Show More
25m 6s
Aug 20
Unlocking Your Teen's Heart With Questions
Today, Mark Gregston shares a devotional from Matthew 7:7, as he emphasizes the power of asking questions as a means of deepening our connection with our teens. Rather than lecturing or interrogating, parents are encouraged to engage their children through thoughtful, nonjudgment ... Show More
17m 20s
Recommended Episodes
Nov 2024
Ep 314: Breaking Bad Habits with Teenagers
Dr. Sophie Mort, author of "Unstuck," provides insights into breaking negative habits, understanding teen decision-making, and reshaping the narratives surrounding adolescence to better support teens' growth and self-esteem.Full Show Notes Navigating teenage years is often associ ... Show More
28m 52s
Apr 2025
When a Teenager is Acting Up
It's difficult to process when your teen misbehaves. John and Danny open up about times their kids didn't behave well, and what they learned as dads. Plus, Jim Daly and Jodie Berndt address why trying to control your teenager's behavior is a poor parenting strategy.   Find us onl ... Show More
10m 38s
Apr 2025
Guarding Your Teen with Boundaries
Teens are under so much pressure these days. Whether it's learning to drive or them resisting sexual temptation, how can you help as a parent? Jodie Berndt talks with Jim Daly on ways she learned to pray for her kids in the teen years. Then, John and Danny bring up how to help yo ... Show More
12m 39s
Feb 2025
Ep 326: Breaking Generational Parenting Cycles
Melanie Shankle, author of Here Be Dragons, joins us to share insights from her complex mother-daughter relationship and discuss how parents can break generational cycles, empower their teens, and handle high school drama with grace.Full Show Notes Parenting teenagers often means ... Show More
25m 49s
Mar 2024
How To Stop Your Teen From Sneaking Out
Finding used tissues and bottles of lube in your teen’s room? Masturbation is a normal part of adolescence, so naturally, your teenager is probably exploring it. But we parents shouldn't be left with the mess, so we advise on how to address it.  And, if your teen is pushing bound ... Show More
17m 17s
Aug 2023
Ep 255: How Much Should Parents Push?
Jennifer Breheny Wallace, author of Never Enough, shares insight into modern day “achievement culture.” We discuss the hidden consequences of pushing teens too hard, and how to help teens balance achievement and fulfillment. Full Show NotesParenting teenagers in today's world com ... Show More
26m 31s
Sep 2024
Ep 305: The Science of Teen Resilience
Tovah Klein, author of Raising Resilience, explains how parents can help their teens develop the resilience needed to overcome life’s inevitable setbacks, emphasizing the importance of anchoring, containing emotions, and fostering self-acceptance.Full Show Notes Your teenager is ... Show More
24m 58s
Jan 2025
How to parent yourself first and break unhealthy cycles with Bryana Kappadakunnel
Send us a textThis episode explores the profound impact of childhood experiences on parenting styles, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and emotional healing. Brianna shares insights on building connections with children through understanding and compassion while sett ... Show More
43m 42s
May 6
Identity and Body Image
With the rise of social media, it's easy for teens today to feel insecure about their body image. Danny talks with John about how his daughter struggled with this very thing as a teenager. Plus, Jim Daly speaks with Jodie Berndt about helping your teen son or daughter find their ... Show More
12m 16s
Dec 2024
Ep 317: Rethinking Punishment for Teenagers
Paul C. Holinger, author of Affects, Cognition, and Language as Foundations of Human Development, delves into the role of interest in building self-esteem, the dangers of physical punishment, and strategies for fostering curiosity in teenagers. Full Show Notes:Raising a teenager ... Show More
24m 11s