Youth Ministry For The Longer Haul Podcast

In this episode of The Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Samm Simmons joins the show to talk all things youth ministry volunteers. In it we talk through recruiting, equipping, retaining, and encouraging youth ministry volunteers. This episode is filled with some practical ideas that you can take and implement into your youth ministry wherever and in whatever context you serve. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Engaging Gen Z by Tim McKnight Rethink Yourself by Trevin Wax Flip the Script JOIN THE PODCAST GROUP! Click here to join our Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Facebook Group

In this episode of The Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast longtime friends of the show, Zac Workun and Chad Higgins from Lifeway Students and Youth Ministry Booster join us to talk about the changes we're seeing in youth ministry today. We dive into all kinds of changes and some history of how we got here as well as some reminiscing on how The Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast and Youth Ministry Booster started. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Follower: Becoming More than Just a Fan of Jesus by Kyle Idleman A Short Guide to Groups: The Art of Leading Community by Jared Musgrove & Justin Elafros The Relational Soul: Moving from False Self to Deep Connection by Richard Plass & James Cofield  JOIN THE PODCAST GROUP! Click here to join our Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Facebook Group

In this episode, I had a great conversation with Eric about what it takes to thrive and survive in youth ministry. We discuss the importance of prioritizing healthy rhythms, celebrating and supporting other youth pastors and churches, developing effective systems, placing a high value on leadership development, and remembering that ministry is not about personal gain. We encourage our fellow young youth pastors to stay committed, continue growing as leaders, and trust in God's plan for their ministry. It was a powerful reminder that the impact we make on our students' lives is far more important than our own success or recognition. JOIN THE PODCAST GROUP! Click here to join our Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Facebook Group

In this episode of The Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast, I'm diving back into a list of books that I'm recommending for youth pastors to read. In addition, I give you several tips for selecting the types of books you read. I'm convinced that reading is a discipline everyone who longs to lead better and improve should have—reading challenges you beyond where you are. It gives you the opportunity to be mentored by people you may never meet in person. You can learn and grow in ways that would be otherwise impossible. So hopefully today's list adds to a list you're already working on, but if not that's ok too. Add these to your wishlist. BOOKS MENTIONED: Canoeing the Mountains by Tod Bolsinger Lost in the Middle by Paul Tripp Team of Rivals by Doris Goodwin Flip the Script Engaging Gen Z by Dr. Tim McKnight The Anxious Teen by Brock Morgan Be Thou My Vision by Jonathan Gibson JOIN THE PODCAST GROUP! Click here to join our Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Facebook Group

In this episode of The Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast, my wife and I follow up with part two, if you will, of episode 126. We share our journey of raising kids while serving in youth ministry and offer insights on how to navigate the unique challenges of parenting in the "fishbowl" of ministry. We talk about the joys and rewards of serving in youth ministry as a family, as well as the difficulties of balancing ministry demands with the needs of our kids. We share personal stories and experiences that have shaped our parenting approach and offer practical tips and principles for other youth pastors and leaders who are also raising families. The conversation covers various topics, from setting healthy boundaries between work and family, prioritizing relationships and intentional family time, and navigating the challenges of being in the public eye. We hope you will be encouraged and inspired by the vulnerable and honest stories we share and will come away with practical strategies for thriving in both min

In this episode of the Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast, we sit down with four special guests: my kiddos. They share their unique perspective on growing up in youth ministry and how it has impacted their lives. The conversation touches on the joys and challenges of being a youth pastor's kid, navigating faith and family dynamics, and how youth ministry has shaped their own beliefs and values. They give honest insights into what it's like to be in the spotlight as a pastor's kid, and the expectations and responsibilities that come with it. They also talk about how their dad's role as a youth pastor has influenced their own involvement in church and ministry. This episode is a must-listen for youth pastors and leaders who want to better understand the experiences and perspectives of the next generation of church leaders. So give this one a listen as we explore the unique world of growing up in youth ministry through the eyes of those who know it best. JOIN THE PODCAST GROUP! Click here to join our Longer

It has become a regular occurrence for me. At least once a week I have someone reach out asking if I know of anyone I could recommend for their Youth Pastor search. Sadly, the answer is the same every time these days...no. It seems that nearly everyone is looking to hire a Youth Pastor and the cupboard is bare. So, where have all the Youth Pastors gone? In this episode, I'm joined by my friends Dr. Tim McKnight (author of Engaging Gen Z), Dr. Scott Pace (author of Student Ministry by the Book), and Todd Jones (from Stoked on Youth Ministry) to discuss what led to the lack of Youth Pastors and what we can do to solve this problem. LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Baptist Press Article: Why is there a shortage of student ministers and what can be done about it? Anderson University The College at Southeastern Stoked on Youth Ministry RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Engaging Gen Z by Dr. Tim McKnight Student Ministry by the Book by Dr. Scott Pace and Dr. Ed Newton Navigating Student Ministry: Char

We all have it. It's the dreaded "other duties as assigned" disclaimer at the bottom of the job description. So what happens when those "other duties" are design, website, newsletter, social media? Maybe you're great at that, but it is a lot to manage on top of your "real job." Maybe you're not so great and don't know where to start. Or, maybe it's just an area you want to be better in. Well in today's episode Matt Curtis joins us and drops some really helpful and practical tips and tricks for getting it all done and doing it well. Oh, and did I mention he's also giving away about $50 in freebies to Longer Haul listeners as well? GRAB THE FREEBIES!! thelongerhaul.com/lunchtime JOIN THE PODCAST GROUP! Click here to join our Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Facebook Group

As the old saying goes, "All good things must come to an end." In this episode podcast, we talk about what's ending, why it's ending, and what if anything the future holds for The Longer Haul. As always, thanks for being a part of The Longer Haul and for all you do! We're so thankful to have you as a part of this community. JOIN THE PODCAST GROUP! Click here to join our Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Facebook Group SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! 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: LONGERHAUL4U for 20% off your next order. *some exclusions apply* I.N.F.O for Families Check out their brand-new resource for helping families navigate smartphones.  Use the promo code: LONGERHAUL for 25% off of your order of Smart Phones 101.  Head over

How often do you evaluate your youth ministry? Stop and think for a minute about the last time you sat down, blocked out some time, and REALLY evaluated your youth ministry. Maybe it has been a while or you're not sure how to do it. Maybe you're not sure what to evaluate or why you even should evaluate your youth ministry. Well, have no fear! In this episode, we're sharing how to, what to, and why you should. We also drop a few practical tools in as well. We hope you find this episode practically helpful as you finish out the year and look ahead to next year. Thanks for listening and for being a part of the longer haul community! RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED: Start by Jon Acuff Finish by Jon Acuff MinHubApp JOIN THE PODCAST GROUP! Click here to join our Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Facebook Group SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! ym360.com YM360 is the premier provider of youth ministry Bible study curriculum, student devotionals, DiscipleNow resources, youth leader development, and summer ca

Longevity in youth ministry definitely requires growing and learning. There's always more to learn and areas to grow. In this episode, we share lessons we're learning, books that we've found helpful, and a few hints at what is ahead. Thanks for listening and for being a part of the longer haul community! JOIN THE PODCAST GROUP! Click here to join our Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Facebook Group SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! 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: LONGERHAUL4U for 20% off your next order. *some exclusions apply* I.N.F.O for Families Check out their brand-new resource for helping families navigate smartphones.  Use the promo code: LONGERHAUL for 25% off of your order of Smart Phones 101.  Head over and check it out at

Partnering with parents in youth ministry can be a challenge. Depending on what stage of life and ministry you are in, knowing how and where to start can leave you frustrated. Never fear! In today's episode we're diving in with practical advice and tips on how to partner more effectively with parents in your youth ministry. Thanks for listening and for being a part of the longer haul community. JOIN THE PODCAST GROUP! Click here to join our Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Facebook Group SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! 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: LONGERHAUL4U for 20% off your next order. *some exclusions apply* I.N.F.O for Families Check out their brand new resource for helping families navigate smartphones.  Use the promo c

Annnnd we're back! It's been a long summer, and we're excited to be back recording new episodes. In this episode, we give you an update on where we've been, what's ahead, and what things we're currently working on. Thanks for listening and for being a part of the longer haul community. JOIN THE PODCAST GROUP! Click here to join our Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Facebook Group SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! 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: LONGERHAUL4U for 20% off your next order. *some exclusions apply* I.N.F.O for Families Check out their brand new resource for helping families navigate smartphones.  Use the promo code: LONGERHAUL for 25% off of your order of Smart Phones 101.  Head over and check it out at smartphones-101.c

It's no secret that youth ministry over the last year and a half has been incredibly difficult. What your ministry will look like after Covid is probably still up in the air. One thing seems to be true for almost everyone, what your youth ministry looks like will largely require rebuilding your youth ministry. On the surface, this can look and feel really discouraging. In today's episode, Matt Lawson joins the show to talk about lessons we can learn from church planting. Matt is a youth ministry veteran and church planter who now works for NAMB supporting church planters. This episode is full of encouragement and practical advice and takeaways. So grab a notebook, pen, and some coffee and dive in. JOIN THE PODCAST GROUP! Click here to join our Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Facebook Group SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! ym360.com YM360 is the premier provider of youth ministry Bible study curriculum, student devotionals, DiscipleNow resources, youth leader development, and summer camp experiences t

How do we engage Gen Z? The largest generation we've ever seen certainly brings with it challenges and opportunities. In today's episode, Dr. Tim McKnight joins the show to talk about Engaging Gen Z. There's a lot to learn and this interview is SO good. So grab some coffee, something to take notes with, and enjoy! Links Mentioned: Engaging Gen Z by Dr. Tim McKnight Anderson University JOIN THE PODCAST GROUP! Click here to join our Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Facebook Group SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! 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: LONGERHAUL4U for 20% off your next order. *some exclusions apply* I.N.F.O for Families Check out their brand new resource for helping families navigate smartphones.  Use the promo code: LON

In our last episode, we gave some helpful thoughts and tips for how to approach your youth ministry as we come out of Covid. Part of this is the reality that for most of us we won't see the same number of students we saw involved in our programs before Covid. But we don't want to be all doom and gloom so in this episode we're talking about, "what if they DO come back." JOIN THE PODCAST GROUP! Click here to join our Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Facebook Group SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! 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: LONGERHAUL4U for 20% off your next order. *some exclusions apply* I.N.F.O for Families Check out their brand new resource for helping families navigate smartphones.  Use the promo code: LONGERHAUL for 25% off

It's been a LOOOONNG year. With many churches now reopening for in-person gatherings, the question looms over many of us, "What if they don't come back?" To be fair, even before the pandemic we were often faced with the question of "What if no one comes?" So in this episode, we're diving in with some practical advice for what to do and how to handle things when our rooms don't look as full as we had hoped, or when they are empty. JOIN THE PODCAST GROUP! Click here to join our Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Facebook Group SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! 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: LONGERHAUL4U for 20% off your next order. *some exclusions apply* I.N.F.O for Families Check out their brand new resource for helping families nav

Over the past year, youth ministry has been one of constant reimagining. We've made plans, to make plans, only to make plans again. The "in-person" gathering is no longer a given. Turns out a global pandemic makes an in-person gathering difficult at best...impossible at worst. This has caused many of us to rethink our ministries beyond the in-person gathering.  So in this episode, we bring on Jackson Arnett who serves with Jody as the online ministry director to talk all things "beyond the in-person gathering." Whether you're just figuring it out, needing more ideas, or running strong in this area we think you'll find this episode really helpful. JOIN THE PODCAST GROUP! Click here to join our Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Facebook Group SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! 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 MINI

This year has been a year like no other. In this episode, we talk through the BIG lessons we learned over the year. Some are personal lessons and some are ministry lessons. So take a listen and we would love to hear what lessons you've learned as well. JOIN THE PODCAST GROUP! Click here to join our Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Facebook Group SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! 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: LONGERHAUL4U for 20% off your next order. *some exclusions apply* I.N.F.O for Families Check out their brand new resource for helping families navigate smartphones.  Use the promo code: LONGERHAUL for 25% off of your order of Smart Phones 101.  Head over and check it out at smartphones-101.com!

In this episode, our friend Barrett Johnson from I.N.F.O. for Families joins us to talk about helping parents navigate devices and social media. We talk about the documentary The Social Dilemma as well as some practical bits of help and takeaways for you and for the parents you serve. LINKS MENTIONED The Social Dilemma I.N.F.O for Families - https://www.infoforfamilies.com/ JOIN THE PODCAST GROUP! Click here to join our Longer Haul Youth Ministry Podcast Facebook Group SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! AirOSport.fun AIR O SPORT is a new engaging, multi-use game that's guaranteed to get everyone in on the fun!  Easy to learn, challenging to master...boredom never stood a chance! Be sure to use the promo code: LONGERHAUL to save on shipping and get a free upgrade on your discs. 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