The Longer Haul
The Podcast to Help you Thrive and not just Survive
for The Longer Haul in Youth Ministry
Latest Podcast Episodes
TLH145: The Challenges and Joys of Being a Volunteer Youth Minister
In this episode of The Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Jody sits down with Ben Compton, a volunteer youth leader with nine years of experience building a thriving ministry while working full-time. Ben shares his journey of balancing work, family, and ministry, offering practical...
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TLH144: Making Changes in Youth Ministry Without Getting Fired
In this episode of The Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast, we kick off 2025 with a practical episode on how to make changes in youth ministry—without getting fired. As youth ministers reflect on the past year and plan for the future, change often feels...
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TLH143: Staying the Course: Longevity and Mental Health in Ministry
In this episode of The Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast, Jody explores the crucial topic of mental health and longevity in youth ministry. Jeff Glenn, a veteran youth pastor with over 26 years of experience, shares in this episode practical ways to manage stress,...
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Latest Blog Posts
Practical Self-Care Tips for Youth Ministry Leaders to Thrive Long-Term
As a youth ministry leader, your job is demanding. You pour into others, lead teams, guide teens, and offer support to your congregation, often sacrificing your own needs to...
How Ministry Leaders Can Prioritize Self-Care and Avoid Burnout
How Ministry Leaders Can Prioritize Self-Care and Avoid Burnout If you’re in ministry, you know the joy of seeing lives changed, the thrill of serving others, and the satisfaction...
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...
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.
