Podcasts about Heartlight

In a second installment, Shane plunges deep with Mark Gregston of Heartlight ministries discussing perspective, Mark's personal story of nearly drowning, and how much parent-hurt can impact a person's life.  Referenced in today's show: parentingtodaysteens.org heartlightministries.org  

Special Guest Mark Gregston shares his incredible story of starting Heartlight, a ministry devoted to helping struggling teens become whole.   Referenced in today's show: www.parentingtodaysteens.org www.heartlightministries.org

"Send us a Fan Mail Text Message"Do you remember the first time you watched "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial"? For us, it was a magical journey that left an indelible mark on our childhoods and continues to influence us today. Join us as we relive the heartwarming and emotional moments of this 1982 classic, celebrating Steven Spielberg's brilliance and exploring the powerful performances of Henry Thomas, Drew Barrymore, and Dee Wallace. Our conversation is rich with personal anecdotes, reflections on the film's box office triumph, and its enduring cultural impact, drawing comparisons to other Spielberg masterpieces like "Poltergeist."What do "Stranger Things" and "E.T." have in common? Dive into our spirited discussion about the film's authentic portrayal of kids' interactions, reminiscent of the era's charm with board games and pizza delivery. We dissect the film's thrilling opening scenes and the deeper connections between Elliott and E.T., touching on Neil Diamond's song "Heartlight" and its mysterious ties to the movie. You'll also hear us laugh about childhood antics inspired by E.T. and share our evolving perceptions of the film from our youth to adulthood, including the emotional resonance of their bond and the heartache of their separation.Ever wondered about the behind-the-scenes secrets of "E.T."? We uncover fascinating details about Spielberg's creative choices, including his resistance to sequels and the iconic Reese's Pieces product placement. Reflecting on nostalgic memories, we reminisce about the various formats we watched the film on, from worn-out VHS tapes to pristine 20th anniversary DVDs. The episode wouldn't be complete without a nostalgic ride through the ET Adventure at Universal Studios and a preview of our next review: the 1980s football-themed film "Johnny B. Good." Join us for this heartfelt and nostalgic exploration of one of the most beloved movies of the 80s.Support the showSounds:https://freesound.org/people/frodeims/sounds/666222/ Door openinghttps://freesound.org/people/Sami_Hiltunen/sounds/527187/ Eerie intro music https://freesound.org/people/jack126guy/sounds/361346/ Slot machinehttps://freesound.org/people/Zott820/sounds/209578/ Cash registerhttps://freesound.org/people/Exchanger/sounds/415504/ Fun Facts Jingle Thanks to The Tsunami Experiment for the theme music!!Check them out hereSUPPORT US AT https://www.buzzsprout.com/1984311/supporters/newMERCH STORE https://ol-dirty-basement.creator-spring.comFind us at the following https://oldirtybasement.buzzsprout.com WEBSITE ...

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.orghttps://markgregston.comhttps://heartlightministries.org-----------------------------CHAPTERS:00:00  Introduction01:02  What's Different About Today's Teens?04:30  The Root of Hopelessness07:14  Building Strong Relationships with Your Teen12:30  Setting Boundaries and Letting Go15:42  Can You Be Your Teenager's Friend?18:30  Raising Kids of Faith in a Modern World21:00  Conclusion: Hope for Today's Teens------------------------------BEHIND THE MIKE WEBSITE:https://BehindTheMikePodcast.comEmail | Mike@BehindTheMike.netSubscribe to Behind the Mike YouTube:   / behindthemikeconversationsofhope Send us a textSupport the Show.Watch these podcasts on YouTube!Follow Us!YouTube: @behindthemikepodcastInstagram: @behindthemikepodcastTikTok: @behind_the_mike_podcastFacebook: @behindthemikepodcast

Blake Nelson of Heartlight Ministries hones in on the core of teen parenting struggles of today, and how Heartlight seeks to bring teens into wholeness through relationship. Referenced in today's show: www.parentingtodaysteens.org www.heartlightministries.org

Happy 4th of July!!! On the July 4 edition of Music History Today, Posh married Becks, we hailed the chief for the first time, and Ariana licked donuts. Born on the 4th of July was Post Malone. For more music history, subscribe to my Spotify Channel or subscribe to the audio version of my music history podcasts, wherever you get your podcasts from ALL MUSIC HISTORY TODAY  PODCAST NETWORK LINKS - ⁠https://allmylinks.com/musichistorytoday⁠  On this date: In 1828, Hail to the Chief was performed for the first time. It was for President John Quincey Adams. In 1831, the song America, otherwise known as My Country Tis of Thee & whose music comes from the British national anthem God Save the King, premiered in Boston. In 1955, Gene Vincent was seriously hurt when his motorcycle was hit by a car in Virginia. In 1959, the Island Records label was founded in Jamaica. In 1966, the Beatles played 2 shows in the Philippines to a total of 80,000 people. They were then attacked for accidentally insulting Philippine's President Ferdinand Marcos's wife Imelda. In 1969, Grand Funk Railroad & Janis Joplin were among those who performed on day 2 of the first Atlanta International Pop Festival. In 1970, 200,000 people saw Jimi Hendrix, BB King, among others perform at the 1970 Atlanta International Pop Festival. In 1974, Barry White married singer Glodean James. In 1974, the Tony Orlando & Dawn TV show premiered. In 1974, Steely Dan stopped concert-performing to focus on making records, much like the Beatles did. They went back to touring in 1993. In 1976, the Clash played live for the first time. In 1976, The Ramones performed a genre defining concert at the Roundhouse in Camden, London. In 1976, Paul Revere of Paul Revere & the Raiders got married on stage during his band's concert. In 1977, Gary Valentine left Blondie. He was replaced by Nigel Harrison. In 1980, the Beach Boys performed a free concert in Washington DC. In 1982, Ozzy Osbourne married manager & promoter Sharon Arden. In 1982, Neil Diamond, Burt Bacharach, & Carole Bayer Sager wrote the song Heartlight, based on the movie E.T., which they had all seen that day. In 1986, Bob Dylan & John Mellencamp were among those who performed at the Farm Aid II benefit concert. In 1987, John Fogerty & Neil Diamond were among those who performed at a Vietnam Veterans benefit concert. In 1987, Genesis finished their Invisible Touch tour. In 1992, Mamas & the Papas member John Phillips received a liver transplant. In 1993, The Four Tops performed at the Meadow Brook Music Festival in Michigan. In 1995, Hole frontwoman Courtney Love punched Kathleen Hanna of Bikini Kill during a fight backstage at a Lollapalooza concert. In 1997, Roberta Flack performed with the Boston Pops for their 4th of July concert in Boston. In 1998, Lionel Richie performed at the Party in the Park Prince's Trust Charity concert in London. In 1999, Victoria Adams, Posh Spice of the Spice Girls, married David Beckham. In 2002, George Harrison's attacker, Michael Abram, was released from a mental health program only 19 months after he almost killed Harrison. In 2008, the movie based on the ABBA musical Mama Mia premiered in Sweden. All 4 members of ABBA showed up to the premiere, reuniting for the first time since their breakup over 20 years earlier.  In 2010, George Michael was involved in an auto accident. He was later arrested & charged with driving under the influence of cannabis, for which he served a month in jail. In 2013, Tina Turner married record executive Erwin Bach. In 2014, Jesse Wood of Reef married TV presenter Fearne Cotton. In 2014, Australian singer Rolf Harris was sentenced to prison for sexually assaulting underaged girls. In 2015, Vanessa Williams married husband Jim Skrip. In 2015, Billy Joel married equestrian rider Alexis Roderick. In 2015, Ariana Grande had her infamous donut licking incident at a donut shop in California. In 2020, Kanye West announced that he was running for President. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/musichistorytodaypodcast/support

The HeartLight Center in Denver, CO is a nonprofit grief center offering in-person and online support to those who are grieving or supporting grievers. Executive Director Jenn Flaum talks with me about how they strive to “adapt, connect, and create what's meaningful” for all those who come through the door. What are the different things that grievers need? What does a grief group look like? How is “peer-based support” different? When you need support, why choose a group versus individual counseling?  https://heartlightcenter.org/ https://www.instagram.com/heartlightcenter/ https://facebook.com/heartlightcenter https://twitter.com/heartlightcente https://www.linkedin.com/company/2101243/

Bindi Shah's, Soul Whispers prompts bring us to the word "Heart".  Yesterday I mentioned, the word movement and how creating a new narrative happens with thesign of Pisces.Since it is the sign of both endings and beginnings, it also holds the core of one's being.  In fact, all of yours, and my stories are in the "Heart" realm.  In this episode,  I am doing a four card oracle spread for the collective to help us get  clear  on our"Heart" visions.   I have uploaded the card images to Instagram.  With the New Moon in Pisces, as the lunar messenger, I am presenting  Adama Sesay,Black Moon Lilith Cosmic Alchemy Oracle Deck.    The spread she offers is a combination astrology and oracle insights.  The layout: Lunar Illumination Spread.Today's Episode:  What is the "Heart" of the Matter for you?P.S.  In this episode, there's a correction... this is #6.Find Out  About Your Astrology Chart   The yearly Solar Return Chart (birthday chart) is especially useful for gaining awareness of what, and how to navigate  your year.  Learn how particular signs, planets, eclipses, retrogrades, and the cosmic whether will affect you this year. If you have a desire to finally create more self-understanding, success, financial abundance, and manifests your heart's desires,  your astrology Soul blueprint offers unique answers and a customized design  just for you.  I am Ready to Guide Your Astrology JourneyContact MaeRuth:  https://www.soulsoundinsights.com  https://www.instagram.com/soulsoundinsights/Contact Bindi:  https://www.instagram.com/letterstomysoul/I am proud to announce my new offering as a Certified Creative Depth Coach. As a Creative Depth Coach, I provide guidance, support and soul insights on how to discover, explore and navigate your life by recognizing your magnificent "Creative Genius". By learning to walk in your own "Light" you become able to move through your life with deep awareness, greater ease and success.Some of my modalities and Soul tools are "Art as Process" EFT Tapping, Sound and Music for Inner Journeying , using the wisdom of Astrology, Tarot, Oracle and Numerology. Schedule a personal conversation with me. I look forward to seeing you.https://www.soulsoundinsights.com/light-reading.html Enjoy Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in Taurus Drumming Video:https://vimeo.com/769123538/b344b2b541 "Calling The Wild", Original Music by MaeRuth McCants

High school is a tough time for many teens, full of different experiences and challenges — and sometimes bad influences. In today's episode, Mark sits down with two teens who found themselves in a downhill spiral in high school, including one young lady who succumbed to bad influences after transferring schools, where she struggled to fit in at first. She also discussed her newfound understanding of love and forgiveness and the positive changes she's witnessing in herself during her time at Heartlight. Tune in now! Want to learn more about how the Heartlight program works? Visit heartlightministries.org today! 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

When teens make poor choices or start spiraling, communication between kids and their parents often start shutting down, leading to more problems. In today's episode, Mark talks to two young ladies from Heartlight, both of whom talk about the importance of communication and understanding between parents and teens. They share how they longed for their parents to really listen and empathize with their struggles, rather than simply laying down rules. Listen in to these great interviews! Interested in learning more about the Heartlight program? Visit heartlightministries.org today! 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Teens rarely rebel at random. All behavior — even the rebellious kind — is goal-driven. As we hear in today's stories, sometimes teens act out because they're seeking freedom and feel smothered by their parents. Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens, including Manny, who shares his personal struggles with strained family relationships, experimentation with drugs and the quest for independence. Tune in now! Interested in learning more about the Heartlight program? Go to heartlightministries.org today! 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Teens who are hurting may feel like the best thing to do is pull away and face their problems alone, but at the end of the day, having support from parents and grandparents can make all the difference. In today's episode, Mark talks with two more Heartlight teens, including Abby, who reflects on the pivotal role of her grandparents in her life when they stepped in to help raise her. Listen in now! If you've ever lost a pet, you know how deeply the loss of that special friendship can hurt. Mark wrote "Where's Stitch?" to help families navigate this grief, and you can order your copy today at wheresstitchbook.com 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Almost everyone has found themselves bottling up their feelings at one point or another — but if that habit keeps up, the bottle is bound to burst. In today's episode, Mark sits down with two teens from Heartlight, including Santana, who was court-ordered to come to the boarding school after facing legal trouble. He opens up about substance use and struggling with hiding his emotions behind a facade of "being okay." Listen in for these insightful interviews! Have you checked out our special Grandparenting Bundle? You can pick up yours today at bit.ly/grandparent-bundle. It also makes a great gift! 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Hey parents! Are you tired of getting one-word answers from your teen? Whether you're struggling to engage in meaningful conversations with your kid or simply want to enhance your communication skills, it all starts with asking questions that demand more than a yes or no. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how good questions stimulate deep thought and help your teen find their own answers to life. It's time to help them learn to discuss, share and express themselves more fully — tune in now! To learn more about the Heartlight boarding school program, visit 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

The teenage years are full of ups and downs as our kids try to figure out who they are and how they fit into the world. But when self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy creep into the picture, it can lead them into a spiral. In today's interviews with Heartlight teens, Mark Gregson sits down with two young men, including a 16-year-old who opens up about his struggles with anxiety, depression and a feeling of never being good enough. Tune in to hear how he's developing healthy coping skills at the boarding school! Looking for more practical insights and tips to help you parent your teen through the tough adolescent years? Check out Mark's book, "Raising Teens in a Contrary Culture," at bit.ly/contrary-culture 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Part of being a teen is trying to figure out where you fit in, and, unfortunately, feeling rejected sometimes comes with the territory. But for many adopted teens, rejection can open up old wounds. In today's episode, Mark sits down with two young ladies from Heartlight, including Anna Grace, who shares her powerful story of adoption from Russia and her journey of overcoming feelings of rejection and abandonment to finding her self-worth and acceptance. Don't miss these stories! If you'd like to learn more about the Heartlight residential counseling program, visit 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

When parents and teens have different ideas of how the teen's life should look, it can lead to frustration, disappointment and hurt feelings. Learning to communicate appropriate expectations is key! In today's episode, Mark sits down with some young men from Heartlight, including Tucker, who shares his experiences with conflicted family relationships and the struggle to be accepted for who he truly is. Listen in now! Interested in learning more about the Heartlight residential program? Visit heartlightministries.org today! 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Are you a parent looking to strengthen your relationship with your teen? Today's fast-paced world makes building and maintaining a strong bond with your kid quite the challenge. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share seven keys to building a strong, healthy connection with your adolescent. From believing in your child and being honest about your own mistakes to encouraging open discussions and consistently expressing love, these insights provide valuable guidance for parents. Tune in now! To learn more about the Heartlight boarding school program, visit 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Whether it's moving across the country or watching family dynamics shift around you, dealing with big life changes is hard at any age. In today's episode, Mark sits down with two more teens from Heartlight to hear their unique stories. Andrew opens up about how moving a lot as a child impacted him, while Heather shares her emotional journey through her parents' divorce and the impact it had on her self-worth and relationships. Don't miss these compelling interviews! Right now, you can make a lasting impact on teens and families with your year-end gift. Visit parentingtodaysteens.org/eoy to make a difference this holiday season! 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

If you have an angry teen in your home, it can sometimes feel like trying to dodge a hurricane. But coming alongside them and helping them develop healthy ways to deal with their frustrations will benefit them for the rest of their lives. In this episode, Mark has powerful conversations with two teens from Heartlight, including Sam, who talks about her journey from explosive behavior and frustration to a more calm and respectful approach in her relationships. Listen in now! To learn more about the Heartlight boarding school program, visit 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Many parents can probably look back on their own teen years and remember some crazy things they did in the name of fitting in or being liked. As much as things have changed, today's teens aren't much different. In this episode, Mark sits down with two teens from Heartlight, including Sam, who shares his journey of rebellion, cheating and substance abuse, which stemmed from feelings of depression and a need for acceptance. There's a lot to learn from these conversations, so tune in! Interested in learning more about the Heartlight program? Go to heartlightministries.org today! 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Some teens go through their high school years feeling like they never quite fit in or that other kids are able to do things that they can't. Eventually, that'll take a toll on anyone's self-esteem! In today's episode, Mark talks with two teens who've both felt like the odd one out at different times in their lives. For one young lady, her social anxiety and negative thoughts led her to lash out at her family, but she's working on seeing her true value while at Heartlight. Listen in! Is Heartlight the right option for your struggling teen? Learn more at 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Most parents would probably agree that they wouldn't want to grow up in the culture our teens live in today. The social pressures they face and the constant barrage of social media can be overwhelming! In today's episode, Mark speaks with two more students from Heartlight, including one young lady whose desire for acceptance and friendship at a new school led her to make poor choices. Mark's candid conversation with these teens sheds light on the importance of creating a stable and supportive environment for kids in today's culture. Tune in now! For more on this topic, check out "Raising Teens in a Contrary Culture," at bit.ly/contrary-culture 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Drug use in teens often starts because it seems like a way to relax, but often, they begin to rely on substances just to get through the day. For many, it becomes a way to silence inner turmoil. In today's show, Mark sits down with some Heartlight teens, including a young lady who felt isolated and overlooked, so she turned to drugs to take the pain away. Eventually, this behavior got her expelled from school. Listen in to hear her story! Want to learn more about the Heartlight program? Visit heartlightministries.org today! 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

When teens are carrying around a lot of hurt inside, they often look for any way to numb it or escape it — even if that means physically running away from home. In today's episode, Mark chats with two Heartlight teens, including one young lady whose struggles with mental health and drug use led her to pack her bags and be on the run for an entire week. Tune in to hear these stories! Interested in the Heartlight program? Learn more at 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

When a teen has broken your trust, it can be hard for parents to take that leap of faith again ... and our kids know this too. In today's episode, Mark talks to a couple of Heartlight students who are working on reconnecting with their parents and rebuilding trust. For one young man who used to steal money from his family to buy drugs, he knows he needs to prove himself to his parents again — and he's up for the challenge. Tune in for these interviews! Is the Heartlight program right for your struggling teen? Visit 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

For many of the teens that come to Heartlight, their stay at the boarding school is the longest they've been away from their parents — and that time apart can help all of them begin to see things more clearly. In today's show, Mark talks to two young ladies who both got caught up in drinking and doing drugs to self-medicate deeper issues, which led to lots of conflict with their parents. Now, the families are working toward healthier, more understanding relationships. To learn more about the Heartlight program, visit 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Dave and Milt, adventurers bold and keen, Stepped into a time machine, a wondrous dream, Their destination set, the year was '82, With music as their guide, they found a place where seagulls flew.Heartlight by Neil Diamond, a song, they feared, would be a tragic and senseless assault on the ears.I Ran by A Flock Of Seagulls, it's musical insanity - and the dude's hair defied reason, taste, and yes, gravity.You Can Do Magic is America's song. But here's the thing: guess what, before long... the boys had to draw a line in the sand. It's only America's song 'cause that's the name of the band.Somebody's Baby by Jackson Browne is just so sweet, it's a song you might want to put on repeat. But you might want to try forget the flick... where a dude chooses a ball field to shag a young chick.Olivia Newton-John sang Heart Attack with grace, But the song - meh - it's just kinda taking up space.Cocker? I hardly know her. But Joe's voice enthralls... with a movie theme recalling Gere kicked in the balls. I Keep Forgettin', crooned Michael McDonald. His cool raspy voice into all ears he would tunnel. ... [Sorry but you try rhyming 'Mcdonald.']Eye In The Sky, The Alan Parsons Project's dream, is as dynamic as cold toast, as thin as Kareem.Jack & Diane, in John Cougar's nostalgic fog, still holds up well. Pass the chili dog.Who Can It Be Now? Asked the Men At Work. A cool Aussie rock band. You were expecting Bjork?

Having close, meaningful friendships during the teen years is so important for kids' mental and emotional health — but unfortunately, finding those real friendships can sometimes be a rocky road. In today's episode, Mark Gregston talks with two Heartlight residents about why they succumbed to peer pressure and started getting into drugs and alcohol to fit in. Tune in to hear their perspectives! Interested in learning about the Heartlight program? Visit 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

When teens experience trauma, they oftentimes don't have the coping skills they need to work through it in a productive way. Trying to get rid of the hurt they feel can leave them spinning out of control. In this episode, Mark chats with two teens who addressed deep issues while at Heartlight, including one young man whose mom tragically passed away from cancer. Desperate to control something, he started using drugs, but soon, the drugs controlled him. Tune in to hear these stories! Want to learn how to better connect with your child? Check out our free e-course, "Bridging the Gap With Your Teen," at bit.ly/3DWPwun 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

As Buddha said, “Make of your life a light.” What does that really mean? And how do we make our life, our gift of time, a candle flame that can light even the darkest places? In this episode, T. A. Barron takes us on a beautiful journey of inspiration and light. He reads passages from his books Heartlight and The Great Tree of Avalon. We explore radiant ideas as well as distant stars, and we meet magical creatures including dragons, chimewings, light flyers, and more. We celebrate the light of story, of poetry, of Merlin, and of music, as well as the enduring light of love. Will you use your life to make a little light? Tune in to spark the flame. Follow @tabarronauthor and check out this YouTube Short from T. A. Barron about his favorite quote from Buddha. Learn more about Heartlight and The Great Tree of Avalon by T. A. Barron. Download a printable copy of the poem highlighted in this episode, "Death, Soft on the Snow," by T. A. Barron. Magic & Mountains is hosted by T. A. Barron, beloved author of 32 books and counting. Carolyn Hunter is co-host. Magic & Mountains Theme Song by Julian Peterson

Substance abuse in teens can be driven by all kinds of sources: Shame, loss, a longing to fit in ... the list goes on! If your teen is getting involved with drug use or drinking, you need to seek the heart of the problem. In today's show, Mark sits down with two young men from Heartlight to discuss why they turned to drugs when things got tough. For Harrison, he began using heavy drugs to escape the pain of broken relationships. There's still time to submit a bid in our Online Auction that runs through September 30! Visit heartlightauctions.org to get started. 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

When a teen feels like their life is spiraling out of control, it can sometimes be hard for them to see any way things might get better. But no teen is ever a lost cause! In today's show, Mark sits down with two more Heartlight teens who share some of the darkest times in their lives. For Peter, who struggled with deep depression and trust issues, the structure and support of boarding school have helped him find a sense of motivation that he's never had before. Listen in for these honest and insightful interviews! Interested in learning about the Heartlight program? Visit 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

If you have a fiercely independent teen at home, you've probably gotten in a battle or two (or more) over who's in control. Finding the balance can be a real challenge! In today's show, Mark chats with two teens at Heartlight, including a young lady who has always had a strong independent streak and was constantly fighting for control of her life with her parents. She shares some valuable insights and gives advice for other parents with independent teens, so don't miss this episode! Have you heard about our Parenting Today's Teens Online Auction yet? From September 1-30, you can bid on great items and experiences for a great cause. Visit markgregston.com/auction today! 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Whether it's technology, the accessibility of drugs or shifting social pressures, there's no doubt that today's teen culture has changed drastically over time. It's a tough world to grow up in! In today's show, Mark sits down with two young ladies at Heartlight who discuss getting into drugs at a young age, anger management issues and why social media can be anxiety-inducing. Don't miss these great conversations! Want to check out our full list of parenting resources? Visit our online store at resources.parentingtodaysteens.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 www.ChristianParenting.org

A big part of adolescence is developing the skills to think more abstractly and reflect upon the choices you make. Teens often begin to understand why hurts from their childhood are still impacting them — but how they choose to deal with it now is up to them. In this episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight high schoolers: One who shares why her adoption story made it hard for her to feel loved, and another who explains how his struggles with self-esteem led him to do drugs to fit in. These interviews are very insightful, so don't miss them! To learn more about Heartlight, visit 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

When a parent passes away, everyone in the family is impacted — but it's often hard for each to see beyond their own grief. For teens in this situation, they may withdraw, causing rifts in relationships. In this episode, Mark sits down with two more Heartlight teens, including a young lady who lost her dad to cancer. After he passed, she and her mom's relationship spiraled ... but together, they're working to fix it. Listen in for these powerful interviews! Interested in the Heartlight program? Learn more at 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Whether it's with their parents or with friends, teens need genuine, deep relationships in their lives. Unfortunately, the culture we live in can make fostering those connections really tough. In today's show, Mark talks with two more Heartlight teens who have greatly benefitted from their time there. For Ethan, finding real friendships with other teens at the boarding school has helped him cope with anger issues he's experienced since childhood. Wondering how to strengthen YOUR relationship with your teen? Enroll in our free e-course, "Five Ways to Stay Engaged with Your Teen," today! bit.ly/3ObygbF 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

In today's fast-paced and uncertain world, teen anxiety has become a growing concern affecting more than 1 in 20 children between the ages of 6-17. As parents and caregivers, we must recognize the seriousness of this issue and move away from the harmful belief that "they'll grow out of it." In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Justin Arnold, Heartlight's director of counseling, discuss how relationships can become a powerful mechanism to instill assurance, combat uncertainty and alleviate anxiety in today's teens. Listen now! One of the most powerful things you can do for your child is pray for them. Not sure where to start? Check out our Devotional Bundle at bit.ly/3PfSFfT 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Many teens who struggle with mental illness try to escape the depression or anxiety they feel every day by turning to drugs, bad relationships or isolation. They typically end up in a worse place than where they started. In today's episode, Mark talks to two Heartlight teens — one who began smoking weed to self-medicate her social anxiety, and another whose depression drove him to irresponsible and reckless behavior. Listen in to hear how learning new coping skills is helping them heal! Is Heartlight the answer for your struggling teen? To learn more about the program, visit 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

If you want to one day have critical, important conversations with your teen, you need to invest time in the little, inconsequential chats now. Showing your teen that you will make time for them, no matter what it's about, will help build crucial trust. In today's episode, Mark talks about how the little things add up in long-term relationships and reshares some stories of how his mentors — and the people who doubted him — shaped his life and ministry. To learn more about Heartlight, visit 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Most teens want to be in control of their own lives, but when they try to take the reins by force, it can lead to ongoing conflict with their families ... and things end up more out of control than ever. In this week's interview with Heartlight teens, Mark sits down with two older teens who reflect on their drug use and why they didn't want to listen to their parents' rules. Don't miss these conversations! Need some more insight into the challenges of your own teen's life? Check out "What's Happening To My Teen?" by Mark Gregston at bit.ly/3zbI5hW 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Loss can take many forms, and impact teens in many different ways. Oftentimes, the pain they carry inside can shape their everyday behavior. In today's interview with Heartlight teens, Mark talks with two high schoolers who unpack how their heavy feelings of grief and guilt changed how they viewed the world and interacted with family and friends. In Dylan's case, he tried to run from feeling the grief of losing his brother until finally facing it after coming to the Heartlight program. Need some extra help with your teen? Check out our Teen Struggle Bundle, available now at bit.ly/42IcWhC 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

When teens live in a house where there's a lot of conflict, wanting to get away from it comes as a pretty natural response. Whether that's through sneaking out at night or numbing the pain with drugs, the teen AND their parents need to work together to find healing. In this week's interview with Heartlight teens, Mark talks to two high schoolers, including one young lady who shares how a painful relationship with her father drove her into a downward spiral ... but now, reconciliation seems possible. Is YOUR teen in a crisis? Find out if Heartlight can help at 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

When teens are acting out of hurt or desperation, they may try to cope by deflecting responsibility for poor choices onto anyone but themselves. But eventually, reality is bound to set in. In today's interview with teens, Mark talks to two Heartlight residents who reflect on why they were so angry toward their parents and got involved in toxic outside relationships. Don't miss these insightful stories! Interested in learning more about the Heartlight program? Visit 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

When you're walking through a season of grief or healing from trauma, being alone can be incredibly hard — and for many teens, numbing their pain with substances seems like the only option left. In today's show, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens, including a young lady who had lost both of her adoptive parents to a car crash, and several others who were close to her to suicide. She shares how she found herself alone in all this grief and turned to drugs, but is working hard to stay clean now. Tune in for this honest and emotional interview! Is Heartlight the right path for your struggling teen? Learn more today at 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

If you have a teenager, you're bound to get into arguments with them from time to time — it happens! But when the conflict turns into an ongoing pattern, it puts a strain on everyone involved, and it might be time to seek some outside help. In today's episode, Mark chats with two Heartlight teens who reflect on why they fought with their parents so much. For one young lady, the conflict stemmed from her unique adoption story. Listen in now! One of the most powerful things you can do for your child is pray for them. Not sure where to start? Check out our Devotional Bundle at bit.ly/3PfSFfT 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Some teens arrive at Heartlight feeling prepared and knowing what to expect, while others didn't know they were coming to the boarding school until hours before they arrived. The transition holds its challenges, but many of these teens find value and healing in the experience along the way. Today, Mark chats with two high schoolers who initially had no idea they were coming to the boarding school, but reflect upon how counseling and the friendships they've made have helped them grow and plan for the future. Does your parenting — or grandparenting — toolbox need an upgrade? Check out our Curriculum Bundle at bit.ly/3Vamxvf 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

When teens first arrive at Heartlight, many of them struggle with anger, frustration or take the "fake it 'til you make it" approach to the program. But as time passes, these same kids begin to learn valuable things about themselves and find healing they never knew they needed. In this episode, Mark chats with two young ladies who both appeared on the show before when they first got to the boarding school. Tune in to hear them reflect on how Heartlight has changed their lives — so far! Is Heartlight the right option for your struggling teen? Learn more today at heartlightministries.org

It's time to shine a light on the alarming trend of hopelessness among teenagers and the heartbreaking reality of suicide. Kids today live in an increasingly fragile social ecosystem where one word from their peers can make or break them. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd provide guidance on how parents can help their struggling teens by fostering connections, providing a safe space for open communication and assisting them in envisioning a future where they can find their place. Do you have a struggling teen? Heartlight may be the answer. Learn more here: heartlightministries.org