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

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...

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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...

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Three People Youth Pastors Are Not

As youth pastors and youth workers we wear a lot of hats.  We often end up taking on a ton of random tasks and responsibilities and filling a lot...

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Show Host

Jody Livingston

Jody Livingston has spent over 25 years in student ministry, equipping leaders and building ministries that last. He has dedicated his life to serving as a youth pastor and is the host of The Longer Haul in Youth Ministry Podcast, creating resources through The Longer Haul to encourage and support those serving the next generation. When he’s not investing in students and leaders, Jody enjoys working on his 1972 VW Westfalia and spending time with his wife, Sarah, and their four kids—Emma, Anna, Lizzy, and Jack.

Jody Livingston Headshot