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
Yesterday
Reflecting on a Health Journey
Today, Mark Gregston talks about updates on his health after a near-drowning incident revealed a chronic lung infection and led to a kidney transplant due to polycystic kidney disease. Thanks to his son Adam, who was a donor match, Mark received a new kidney and is recovering wel ... Show More
14m 6s
Jul 8
Teen Stories: Running From Reality
Behind every “reckless” or withdrawn teen is a journey they’re struggling to navigate. In today’s episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight residents who open up about the hidden battles fueling their choices. One young man, Will, shares how his struggle with depression drove h ... Show More
18m 31s
Jul 7
How Loss Can Change a Teen
In this episode, Mark Gregston, Courtney Lafleur and Wayne Shepherd discuss how teens experience loss — not just through death, but also through breakups, rejection and life changes. The three stress the importance of creating a safe space for teens to express their grief without ... Show More
24m 18s
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 8
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 10
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