TLH152: Why Your 20s Aren’t What You Think—and Your 50s Are Better

In this episode of The Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast, Jody sits down with veteran youth pastor Paul Turner to talk about longevity in ministry—what it takes to stay faithful through the decades, the different challenges of each stage of life, and what youth pastors need most in their 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s.

Paul brings nearly four decades of ministry experience to the table with vulnerable stories, practical insights, and honest encouragement for youth workers at every level.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

How youth ministry changes as you grow through the decades
Advice for each decade of ministry (20s, 30s, 40s, 50s)
Why 22-year-old you isn’t always your best self in ministry
What brokenness teaches you about leadership and calling
How to keep showing up, even when the dream falls apart
What makes you more effective with age, not less
Why surrender, self-denial, and listening matter more than trendiness

LINKS MENTIONED

Paul Turner’s Website: The Disciple Project

RESOURCES MENTIONED

JOIN THE YOUTH MINISTRY COLLECTIVE!

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GET COACHING

Interested in personalized coaching to help you thrive in youth ministry?

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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.