The Longer Haul

The Podcast to Help you Thrive and not just Survive
for The Longer Haul in Youth Ministry

Latest Podcast Episodes

TLH139: AI Tools for Youth Pastors—What to Use and What to Avoid

In this episode, Jody and Ryan Sebastian, from the Youth and Culture Podcast, discuss the intersection of AI and youth ministry, exploring how AI tools can enhance communication, streamline content creation, and improve overall ministry effectiveness. Ryan shares his journey in youth ministry, the...

Read More

TLH138: Why Youth Ministry Coaching Could Be the Game-Changer You’re Looking For

In this episode, Brian Wallace joins the show to explore how coaching sparks powerful conversations with teenagers. He highlights the vital role of the Holy Spirit in these interactions, guiding both youth leaders and teens to gain valuable insights and awareness. Brian also contrasts...

Read More

TLH137: Loneliness in Youth Ministry—Why So Many Feel Isolated and What to Do About It

In this conversation, Jody and Zach Wyatt discuss the issue of loneliness in youth ministry and the importance of building community. They highlight the challenges faced by youth pastors and the need for support and connection. They provide practical steps for combating loneliness, such...

Read More

Latest Blog Posts

2 Secrets to Becoming a Better Youth Pastor

In a recent conversation with another youth pastor, we were talking about what the things are that really get measurable results on growing into a better youth pastor. If...

Read More

My Collision Course With Burnout

I was on a collision course with burnout that was inevitable. Those close to me would have seen it coming. I didn’t. I knew I was skirting dangerously close to an...

Read More

7 Secrets to Getting More Students to Sign Up for Your Youth Events

We all want to know the secrets to getting more students to sign up for your youth events right?  You know the feeling.  You’ve spent hours and hours planning an...

Read More

Show Host

Jody Livingston

Jody Livingston is the Pastor of Students and Young Adults at High Desert Church, with 25 years of experience in youth ministry. As a certified youth ministry coach, author, and host of The Longer Haul podcast, Jody is passionate about helping youth pastors build ministries that stand the test of time. His work centers on equipping leaders to thrive in their roles and create lasting impact.

Jody is a proud husband to Sarah and father to their four children: Emma, Anna, Lizzy, and Jack. In his spare time, he enjoys restoring his 1972 VW Westfalia Bus and fueling his sense of adventure through his love for vintage Volkswagens.