Rank #1: TLH074: Insights into Gen Z

This podcast interview will help you dive deeper into Gen Z. We'll consider some of the things defining their generation that will impact the way you do youth ministry.
Brooke Hempell is the Vice President of Research for the Barna Group and was a big part of the Gen Z book recently published by Barna. More importantly, she loves teenagers and youth ministry. Her insight into this current generation is GOLD. You're gonna wanna dig in on this one. It's also an episode you could pass on to your youth workers.
What's that??? We have a podcast Facebook group? Why yes, yes we do. And there are prizes give-a-ways galore on there! Come join us!
Links mentioned:
https://www.barna.com/ https://www.impact360institute.org/
Resources mentioned
Gen Z & Barna Trends
WhoisGenZ.com https://axis.org/
Spiritual Conversations in the Digital Age
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR!
YM360.com
YM360 is the premier provider of youth ministry Bible study curriculum, student devotionals, Disciple Now resources, youth leader development, and summer camp experiences through GENERATE Camp by YM360.
Check out YOUTH MINISTRY THREE SIXTY at YM360.com.
For being a loyal listener use promo code: LONGERHAUL for 20% off your next order. some exclusions apply.
HELP OTHER YOUTH PASTORS!
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss any future episodes, and please share it.
Also, please leave an honest review for The Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast on iTunes. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They help others know the value of the show, and we read each and every one of them.
Sep 20 2018
1hr 8mins
Rank #2: TLH085: How to Help Teenagers Dealing with Self-Harm and Suicide

In this episode, you'll hear from Dr. Jamie Dew. Jamie is the Dean of the College at Southeastern. That sounds pretty fancy, but the thing you really need to know is that he has the heart of a youth pastor.
In this episode, he'll help us to understand some of the issues facing so many of our teenagers.
PODCAST GROUP! Come and hang out and jump in on some of our giveaways!
Click here to join our Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Facebook Group
Links mentioned:
TLH011: Equipping Students to Defend their Faith
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary
The College at Southeastern
JamieDew.com
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR!
ym360.com
YM360 is the premier provider of youth ministry Bible study curriculum, student devotionals, DiscipleNow resources, youth leader development, and summer camp experiences through GENERATE Camp by YM360.
Check out YOUTH MINISTRY THREE SIXTY at YM360.com
For being a loyal listener use promo code: LONGERHAUL for 20% off your next order. *some exclusions apply*
Mar 07 2019
35mins
Rank #3: TLH058: Maturing as a Youth Pastor

Our primary aim is to help you as a youth pastor stay in youth ministry for the longer haul. To do this means navigating maturing as a youth pastor.
And when it comes to this topic, there's no one better to bring wisdom than Dr. Richard Ross. He's the real deal and you'll quickly tell that he has forgotten more about working with teens than most of us will ever learn.
So sit back and enjoy the ride today kids, because Dr. Ross is taking us to school.
Links mentioned:
RichardARoss.com
Youth Ministry Lab
Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
Resources mentioned in this Podcast:
The Senior Pastor and the Reformation of Youth Ministry
In this particular episode, you will learn:
Key steps to take if you're wanting to stay put for the long haul
Does seminary education really matter for the youth pastor?
Why working with teens really makes a difference
And...why you shouldn't actually honk your horn like Chris said to in the last episode...
Show Sponsor:
52 Threads & Fund the Nations -REALLY. AWESOME. SHIRTS.
HELP OTHER YOUTH PASTORS!
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss any future episodes, and please share it.
Also, please leave an honest review for The Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast on iTunes. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They help others know the value of the show, and we read each and every one of them.
If you like what you find at The Longer Haul. Consider supporting it to provide even more for as little as a $1 per month...and get some cool rewards.
Support the Show
Apr 26 2018
1hr 4mins
Rank #4: TLH033: A Youth Ministry that Builds Disciples

In today's episode Duffy Robbins joins me to talk about how to build a youth ministry that builds disciples. This is a great episode and is packed with lots of practical advice and how to's.
Links mentioned:
@duffyrobbins
Eastern.edu
Resources mentioned in this Podcast:
Building a Ministry that Builds Disciples by Duffy Robbins
The Ministry of Nurture by Duffy Robbins
In this particular episode, you will learn:
What real discipleship looks like in Youth Ministry
The must haves every Youth Pastor and Youth Ministry needs for discipleship
Why there really is no silver bullet
Show Sponsor:
Audible.com - Grab a free 30 trial and free download of any of the 250,000+ books available on Audible
HELP OTHER YOUTH PASTORS!
If you're enjoying the podcast please take a few minutes to subscribe and write a review on iTunes. It goes a long way in helping other Youth Pastors and Youth Workers find the podcast.
You can do that right here!
Support the Show
Nov 26 2015
34mins
Rank #5: TLH020: Qualities of a Vibrant Youth Ministry

Links mentioned:
WhyIsMarko.com
@markosbeard
TheYouthCartel.com
Resources mentioned in this Podcast:
Hopecasting: Finding, Keeping and Sharing the Things Unseen
Saying Is Believing: The Necessity of Testimony in Adolescent Spiritual Development
The Summit
In this particular episode, you will learn:
What qualities are needed for a vibrant Youth Ministry
What students are thinking when they think of you
Practical steps to implementing these qualities in your Youth Ministry
I need your help! If you're enjoying the podcast please take a few minutes to subscribe and write a review on iTunes. It goes a long way in helping other Youth Pastors and Youth Workers find the podcast.
You can do that right here!
Support the Show
May 21 2015
49mins
Rank #6: TLH068: Youth Ministry in Small Churches

Let's get real, youth ministry has enough challenges on its own without throwing in the struggle of size. But the truth is that you can be extremely effective in youth ministries of any size.
Certainly, youth ministries of all sizes bring unique advantages and challenges. This week Stephen Hale from the Youth Ministry: Small Church podcast joins the show to specifically look at the advantages and challenges of youth ministry in small churches.
Don't buy the lie. You can absolutely be successful and thrive in youth ministry in small churches, and in this episode we dive into common myths, share experiences serving in small churches, and give some help and practical advice to help navigate unique challenges you find when doing youth ministry in small churches.
Links mentioned:
The Super Secret Longer Haul Podcast Facebook Group (that you should join)
youthministrysmallchurch.com
Resources mentioned:
Sustainable Youth Ministry by Mark DeVries
Why They Stay by Steve Parr
Smaller Church Youth Ministry: No Staff, No Money, No Problem! by Stephanie Caro
Taking Your Church to the Next Level: What Got You Here Won't Get You There by Gary L. McIntosh
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR!
YM360.com
YM360 is the premier provider of youth ministry Bible study curriculum, student devotionals, Disciple Now resources, youth leader development, and summer camp experiences through GENERATE Camp by YM360.
Check out YOUTH MINISTRY THREE SIXTY at YM360.com.
For being a loyal listener use promo code: LONGERHAUL for 20% off your next order. some exclusions apply.
HELP OTHER YOUTH PASTORS!
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss any future episodes, and please share it.
Also, please leave an honest review for The Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast on iTunes. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They help others know the value of the show, and we read each and every one of them.
Jul 19 2018
50mins
Rank #7: TLH045: Reaching Post-Christian Students in Youth Ministry

So what are the keys to reaching these post-christian students in our youth ministries?
In this episode Kolby Milton and I tackle this and more. In this interview you'll learn the things you need to do, evaluate and consider how to reach these students in your community.
Links mentioned:
YouthMinistryMedia.com
Resources mentioned in this Podcast:
Youth Ministry in a Post-Christian World: A Hopeful Wakeup Call by Brock Morgan
Black Nomatic Planner- Agenda, Whiteboard, Organizer, and Daily Planner
In this particular episode, you will learn:
Essential keys to reaching students in a Post-Christian world
Mistakes we often make when attempting to reach lost students
The scary exercise Kolby had to do in seminary that has changed what he does in youth ministry
HELP OTHER YOUTH PASTORS!
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss any future episodes, and please share it using the social media buttons you see at the bottom of the post.
Also, please leave an honest review for The Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast on iTunes. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They help others know the value of the show, and I read each and every one of them.
If you like what you find at The Longer Haul. Consider supporting it to provide even more for as little as a $1 per month...and get some cool rewards.
Support the Show
May 11 2017
42mins
Rank #8: TLH087: Creating and Sustaining a Thriving Youth Ministry

In this episode, Alan talks about where the book comes from and we take time to dig into several chapters from the book. It didn't take long for us to get into some great discussion about what it takes to experience longevity. You'll enjoy this one!
PODCAST GROUP! Come and hang out and jump in on some of our giveaways!
Click here to join our Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Facebook Group
Links mentioned:
Let's Go!: Creating and Sustaining a Thriving Student Ministry
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR!
ym360.com
YM360 is the premier provider of youth ministry Bible study curriculum, student devotionals, DiscipleNow resources, youth leader development, and summer camp experiences through GENERATE Camp by YM360.
Check out YOUTH MINISTRY THREE SIXTY at YM360.com
For being a loyal listener use promo code: LONGERHAUL for 20% off your next order. *some exclusions apply*
Mar 25 2019
1hr 3mins
Rank #9: TLH023: How and When to Write Your Own Youth Ministry Curriculum

In today's episode we are giving you practical and helpful tips for creating curriculum that will really teach your students in a way they will process and learn. Kenny and Elle Campbell share from their experience crafting and creating youth ministry resources and lessons.
Links mentioned:
StuffYouCanUse.org
Youth Ministry Answers Podcast
Resources mentioned in this Podcast:
It's Just a Phase
In this particular episode, you will learn:
When you should write your own instead of using already made curriculum
The 5 step process of creating a great message
How to craft great small group questions
HELP OTHER YOUTH PASTORS!
If you're enjoying the podcast please take a few minutes to subscribe and write a review on iTunes. It goes a long way in helping other Youth Pastors and Youth Workers find the podcast.
You can do that right here!
Support the Show
Jul 09 2015
51mins
Rank #10: TLH024: Partnering with Parents in Youth Ministry

In today's episode Jeremy Lee from ParentMinistry.net shares why this is important, and some helpful tools to do it effectively. Make sure you stick around to the end of the episode where Jeremy gives an AWESOME free resource to listeners!
Links mentioned:
ParentMinistry.net
Parent Ministry Podcast
Resources mentioned in this Podcast:
A REALLY cool freebie
In this particular episode, you will learn:
Why partnering with parents in important for you personally
Why partnering with parents is essential for your students
How to partner with parents more effectively
HELP OTHER YOUTH PASTORS!
If you're enjoying the podcast please take a few minutes to subscribe and write a review on iTunes. It goes a long way in helping other Youth Pastors and Youth Workers find the podcast.
You can do that right here!
Support the Show
Jul 16 2015
57mins
Rank #11: TLH044: Surviving a Downturn in Youth Ministry Numbers

Managing this well helps keep you from being discouraged, helps you communicate what success really is for your ministry, and helps you strengthen those within your ministry. It isn't a matter of if this will happen, rather it is one of when it will happen.
In this episode Paul Turner and I tackle this and more. In this interview you'll learn the things you need to do, evaluate and consider you work your way through and lead through a downturn in your youth ministry numbers.
Links mentioned:
DiscipleProject.net
Resources mentioned in this Podcast:
Evernote
Evernote Essentials
TLH014: Seasons in Youth Ministry
In this particular episode, you will learn:
Why you should expect a downturn in your youth ministry numbers
How longevity helps manage a downturn in your youth ministry numbers
What is a healthy perspective when facing a downturn in your youth ministry numbers
HELP OTHER YOUTH PASTORS!
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss any future episodes, and please share it using the social media buttons you see at the bottom of the post.
Also, please leave an honest review for The Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast on iTunes. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show, and I read each and every one of them.
If you like what you find at The Longer Haul. Consider supporting it to provide even more for as little as a $1 per month...and get some cool rewards.
Support the Show
Dec 29 2016
58mins
Rank #12: TLH030: Avoiding Burnout in Youth Ministry

In today's episode Ben Trueblood joins me to talk about burnout in Youth Ministry and how to avoid it. This is a great episode and is packed with lots of practical advise and how to's.
Links mentioned:
@bentrueblood
http://www.lifeway.com/studentministry/
5 Reasons You Struggle To Get Along With Your Pastor
TLH007: Why They Stay
Resources mentioned in this Podcast:
The Gospel Project for Students
Why They Stay by Steve Parr
In this particular episode, you will learn:
Signs of burnout in Youth Ministry
Causes of burnout in Youth Ministry
How to avoid and come back from burnout in Youth Ministry
Show Sponsor:
Audible.com - Grab a free 30 trial and free download of any of the 250,000+ books available on Audible
HELP OTHER YOUTH PASTORS!
If you're enjoying the podcast please take a few minutes to subscribe and write a review on iTunes. It goes a long way in helping other Youth Pastors and Youth Workers find the podcast.
You can do that right here!
Support the Show
Oct 15 2015
1hr
Rank #13: TLH061: Secrets to Effectively Communicating with Teenagers

In this episode we cover what it takes to really communicate well, what it is really like to be a full-time speaker, why illustrations matter, and the four keys every sermon and lesson should have.
Links mentioned:
The Super Secret Longer Haul Podcast Facebook Group (that you should join)
ChadPoe.com
@chadpoe
Resources mentioned:
Clear Conference
In this particular episode, you will learn:
The key to illustrating well
The real challenges to being a full-time speaker
The four keys every sermon should include
What Jody and Chris think is always in a green room
HELP OTHER YOUTH PASTORS!
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss any future episodes, and please share it.
Also, please leave an honest review for The Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast on iTunes. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They help others know the value of the show, and we read each and every one of them.
If you like what you find at The Longer Haul. Consider supporting it to provide even more for as little as a $1 per month...and get some cool rewards.
Support the Show
May 17 2018
1hr 2mins
Rank #14: TLH019: Inspiring Teens to Serve Others

In today's episode Brooklyn Lindsey shares how to inspire teens to be more and do more, especially when it comes to serving others globally. You'll also hear some lessons she learned early on in her ministry.
Links mentioned:
brooklynlindsey.com
@brooklynlindsey
justicemovement.com
@thejustmove
Resources mentioned in this Podcast:
The Wisdom of Stability: Rooting Faith in a Mobile Culture
The Kingdom Experiment, Youth Edition: A Community Practice on Intentional Living
XP3 Middle School Curriculum
In this particular episode, you will learn:
Lessons in stability from Brooklyn's early years in ministry
How to inspire students to serve others
Way to get students involved serving other globally
I need your help! If you're enjoying the podcast please take a few minutes to subscribe and write a review on iTunes. It goes a long way in helping other Youth Pastors and Youth Workers find the podcast.
You can do that right here!
Support the Show
May 14 2015
59mins
Rank #15: TLH072: Be Soberly Reminded

We admit that this podcast topic is not as fun as a podcast episode on the latest and greatest games, but this one is good reminder for all of us serving in ministry to be alert and stay on guard.
Walt Mueller has been working with teenagers, equipping parents and leading youth pastors for long time. As the founder of the Center for Parent and Youth Understanding, he is on the front lines of youth culture. In this interview, we talk specifically about the dangers associated with serving in ministry and how to navigate culture without falling victim to it.
You're going to want to listen this one, maybe more than once.
More GIVE-A-WAYS THIS WEEK on the Facebook Group! We'd love to have you!
Links mentioned:
https://cpyu.org/ https://cpyu.org/2018/08/09/willow-creek-be-soberly-reminded/
Resources mentioned:
Just Add Parents: Ready-To-Use Parent Meeting – “Tech-Sensible Parenting”
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR!
YM360.com
YM360 is the premier provider of youth ministry Bible study curriculum, student devotionals, Disciple Now resources, youth leader development, and summer camp experiences through GENERATE Camp by YM360.
Check out YOUTH MINISTRY THREE SIXTY at YM360.com.
For being a loyal listener use promo code: LONGERHAUL for 20% off your next order. some exclusions apply.
HELP OTHER YOUTH PASTORS!
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss any future episodes, and please share it.
Also, please leave an honest review for The Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast on iTunes. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They help others know the value of the show, and we read each and every one of them.
Aug 30 2018
1hr 16mins
Rank #16: TLH089: Staying Encouraged in Youth Ministry

When that happens, what do you do? How do you stay the course, keep your eyes on Jesus and not get discouraged? We know we don't have all the answers, but we did take time to share some of the things we've found helpful along the way.
We hope after listening to this one, you'll have the tools you need to stay encouraged for the Longer Haul!
Oh yeah... and JOIN THE FACEBOOK PODCAST GROUP! We'd love to have you.
PODCAST GROUP! Come and hang out and jump in on some of our giveaways!
Click here to join our Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Facebook Group
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR!
ym360.com
YM360 is the premier provider of youth ministry Bible study curriculum, student devotionals, DiscipleNow resources, youth leader development, and summer camp experiences through GENERATE Camp by YM360.
Check out YOUTH MINISTRY THREE SIXTY at YM360.com
For being a loyal listener use promo code: LONGERHAUL for 20% off your next order. *some exclusions apply*
Apr 08 2019
49mins
Rank #17: TLH041: Fighting Pornography Addiction

It is in many cases the BIG secret that seems all too present in the lives of those we serve, and many times in those that are serving. That there is no question that it is an epidemic.
The days of having to go look for pornography are long gone making fighting pornography addiction even more difficult. With so many carrying around a smartphone with access to the interwebs and all of its perils we must guard our hearts and minds.
But, how do we fight pornography addiction? How can one gain victory over it?
Today, David Martin, with I Am Second is back on the show to share his own personal journey as well as some helpful tips and resources with fighting pornography addiction.
So, if you're fighting pornography addiction personally, or just helping those you serve, this episode is for you. Give it a listen for some great practical helps on fighting pornography addiction within your youth ministry and in your own life personally.
Links mentioned:
TLH032: Helping Youth Share the Gospel at School
@realdavidmartin
I Am Second
I Am Second - Students
Resources mentioned in this Podcast:
OpenDNS
xxxchurch.com
Convent Eyes - Get one month free
In this particular episode, you will learn:
What are the real dangers of pornography addiction
Why the Scripture you're memorizing my not actually be helpful
Steps to take when fighting pornography addiction
Show Sponsor:
Audible.com - Grab a free 30 trial and free download of any of the 250,000+ books available on Audible
HELP OTHER YOUTH PASTORS!
If you enjoyed this episode, please share it using the social media buttons you see at the bottom of the post.
Also, please leave an honest review for The Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast on iTunes. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show, and I read each and every one of them.
Support the Show
Aug 04 2016
1hr 3mins
Rank #18: TLH048: How to Foster an Evangelistic Youth Ministry

Getting students to live out and share their faith can be tough. I mean let's be real, getting them to see their schools as a mission field and notice the lost around them can be difficult. Getting them to actually share the gospel? Well, that's another thing altogether.
In this episode Greg Stier from Dare2Share Ministries offers up a ton of wisdom. In this interview you'll learn the values that exist in an evangelistic youth ministry, what it means to be a gospel advancing youth ministry, and a REALLY cool event that Dare2Share is hosting to help you equip your students to share their faith.
Links mentioned:
Dare2ShareLive.org Dare2Share.org
@gregstier
gregstier.org
Resources mentioned in this Podcast:
21st Century Youth Ministry by Chap Clark
Firing Jesus by Greg Stier
Gospelize Your Youth Ministry by Greg Stier
In this particular episode, you will learn:
The MUST HAVE values to REALLY be an evangelistic youth ministry
What is means to be a Gospel Advancing Youth Ministry
The key to remaining passionate for your ministry over the longer haul
HELP OTHER YOUTH PASTORS!
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss any future episodes, and please share it using the social media buttons you see at the bottom of the post.
Also, please leave an honest review for The Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast on iTunes. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They help others know the value of the show, and I read each and every one of them.
If you like what you find at The Longer Haul. Consider supporting it to provide even more for as little as a $1 per month...and get some cool rewards.
Support the Show
Sep 21 2017
39mins
Rank #19: TLH054: Top 10 Youth Ministry Games

These games are our favorites for sure. We're giving you our best and doing our best (well trying at least) to give you the down low on how to play these go to youth ministry games. We're also giving you our tips and tricks for leading games successfully.
Give these a try with your group and let us know how they go.
Links mentioned:
@jodylivingston
@christrent
Resources mentioned in this Podcast:
Longer Haul Resource Page
Games 4 Youth Ministry
Download Youth Ministry Games
9 Square in the Air
BossJock App
In this particular episode, you will learn:
Our List of Top 10 Youth Ministry Games
Tips and Tricks for Leading Games More Effectively
HELP OTHER YOUTH PASTORS!
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss any future episodes, and please share it using the social media buttons you see at the bottom of the post.
Also, please leave an honest review for The Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast on iTunes. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They help others know the value of the show, and I read each and every one of them.
If you like what you find at The Longer Haul. Consider supporting it to provide even more for as little as a $1 per month...and get some cool rewards.
Support the Show
Mar 29 2018
54mins
Rank #20: TLH035: How to Set Goals in Youth Ministry

In today's episode you'll find how to set goals in your Youth Ministry. These will help you stay encouraged and moving forward.
Links mentioned:
Benchmarks in your Youth Ministry (blog post)
Seasons in your Youth Ministry (podcast episode)
@jodyLivingston
The Longer Haul on Facebook
Resources mentioned in this Podcast:
Audible.com - Grab a free 30 trial and free download of any of the 250,000+ books available on Audible
Jesus, Continued...: Why the Spirit Inside You is Better than Jesus Beside You
In this particular episode, you will learn:
Why setting goals is so important
6 Keys to setting goals the right way
How setting goals can help you stay encouraged and stay longer.New
Show Sponsor:
Audible.com - Grab a free 30 trial and free download of any of the 250,000+ books available on Audible
HELP OTHER YOUTH PASTORS!
If you're enjoying the podcast please take a few minutes to subscribe and write a review on iTunes. It goes a long way in helping other Youth Pastors and Youth Workers find the podcast.
You can do that right here!
Support the Show
Jan 07 2016
30mins