TLH154: Tips for Mastering Youth Ministry Programming

In this episode of The Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast, Jody talks with Josh Griffin about how to bring creativity, intentionality, and structure to your youth ministry programming. From midweek nights to camps and retreats, programming matters more than ever—and Josh shares proven ways to make it engaging and gospel-centered.

Whether you’re a new youth pastor or a veteran looking to freshen things up, this conversation will help you reimagine how you design your weekly gatherings for maximum connection and impact.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:

How to define what “programming” really means in youth ministry
Why creativity and emotion are essential to building engagement
How to take “baby steps” toward a better program (without chaos)
The power of variety and when to introduce change
Programming pitfalls to avoid: too much change, copy-paste ideas, or doing nothing
How to use fun and humor strategically
Why connecting your ministry’s program to the larger church culture matters
Simple, creative programming ideas (like LEGO walls, blessings, and Extreme Bingo)

LINKS MENTIONED

RESOURCES MENTIONED

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Jody Livingston

About the Author

I am a Youth Ministry veteran of twenty four years, and currently serve as the Student Pastor at High Desert Church. I help equip and encourage Youth Pastors through this blog and podcast The Longer Haul. My passion is helping Youth Pastors create a ministry of longevity that they truly love. I am the grateful husband of Sarah and the dad of Emma, Anna, Lizzy, and Jack. I am a speaker, lover of vintage VW’s, and the owner of one 1972 VW Westfalia Bus.