What are the biggest challenges facing today’s teens? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Mark Gregson, founder of Heartlight, a residential counseling center for troubled teens, as we explore the impact of trauma, loneliness, and societal pressures on our youth. Mark shares his invaluable insights, highlighting both positive trends like decreased teen pregnancy rates and serious concerns such as the rise in suicide rates. We dive deep into the importance of fostering strong, meaningful relationships to help teens navigate these turbulent times.

Balancing boundaries and independence is no easy feat for parents, but Mark offers practical wisdom on shifting parenting priorities towards safety and development. Through heartfelt personal reflections, he discusses creating a supportive home environment that acts as a sanctuary from external pressures while preparing children to make wise decisions. Mark’s guidance on nurturing different personalities and fostering a loving relationship with your child provides hope as children transition into adulthood.

Faith and love take center stage as we discuss the balance between being a parent and a friend. Mark draws inspiration from Christ’s example, emphasizing listening and loving over authoritarian control. The conversation highlights the transition from teaching preteens to training teens, allowing them to learn from their experiences. We also touch on Mark’s inspiring personal journey, including his upcoming kidney transplant, showcasing his resilience and unwavering dedication to helping both parents and teens thrive. Tune in for a blend of practical advice, heartfelt stories, and hopeful insights on raising teens in today's challenging world.

Visit Mark Gregston's website, Parenting Today's Teens, for more resources on raising teenagers in today's world:
https://parentingtodaysteens.org
https://markgregston.com
https://heartlightministries.org
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CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction
01:02 What's Different About Today's Teens?
04:30 The Root of Hopelessness
07:14 Building Strong Relationships with Your Teen
12:30 Setting Boundaries and Letting Go
15:42 Can You Be Your Teenager's Friend?
18:30 Raising Kids of Faith in a Modern World
21:00 Conclusion: Hope for Today's Teens
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