Harold E. Long's life is a testament to resilience, transformation, and unwavering commitment to service. His diverse experiences—from a turbulent youth to professional success and spiritual leadership—have shaped him into a recovery advocate, mental health coach, pastor, and entrepreneur. His journey through personal struggles, professional achievements, and spiritually-based leadership has enabled him to make a lasting impact on countless individuals and communities.

Born on July 20, 1965, in Nevada, Missouri, Long experienced significant transitions during his formative years. His family frequently moved from Arnold to Kirksville, Missouri, where he attended Kirksville High School. However, at just fifteen, Long left home and school, living independently while working various jobs to sustain himself. This early adversity instilled in him a deep sense of perseverance and self-reliance—qualities that would later define his recovery advocacy and leadership approach.

Despite the challenges of his youth, Long remained committed to personal growth and education. He earned a Bachelor of Professional Studies and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Missouri Baptist University. Later, he deepened his theological understanding by obtaining a Master of Divinity (M.Div.) from Eden Theological Seminary. He is pursuing a Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) from Andersonville Theological Seminary, further solidifying his role as a faith leader.

Before entering full-time ministry, Harold E. Long built a distinguished insurance and financial services career. He began in 1990 as an assistant to his mother, Patricia A. Long, whose example inspired his early success. He soon joined AAA Missouri as a captive agent from 1990 to 1998. Driven by a vision for innovation, Long launched his own AAA Entrepreneur Agency in 1998 and led it until 2009. He then co-founded HALO Insurance & Benefits Group, serving clients from 2009 to 2016. By 2022, he co-founded American Insurance & Financial Services. His entrepreneurial journey sharpened his leadership, strategic thinking, and service-driven mindset—skills that now shape his ministry and community advocacy.

Long's journey toward recovery advocacy began in 1987 when he dedicated himself to mentoring individuals struggling with alcoholism and addiction. Between 1990 and 1993, he volunteered at The Salvation Army Harbor Light Addiction Center, reinforcing his commitment to helping others overcome alcoholism and substance abuse. His passion for rehabilitation extended to correctional facilities in 1993, where he provided mentorship and recovery support to incarcerated individuals. Since 1996, he has continued his work as a full-time volunteer with the Missouri Department of Corrections, demonstrating an enduring dedication to empowering those in need of redemption and transformation.

In 2016, Long transitioned into full-time pastoral ministry, serving as Senior Teaching Pastor at Mt. Olivet UMC (2016–2018) and LifeSong UMC (2018–2020). From 2020 to 2024, he led Hillsboro UMC and Transformation UMC, strengthening communities through faith, mentorship, and recovery initiatives. His latest endeavor, the planting of Transformation Church in Eureka, Missouri, is set to launch in the summer of 2025, with preparatory meetings underway in House Springs, Missouri.

Long's influence extends beyond the pulpit. Harold's new bestselling book, The Big Delusion: Shattering the Delusions of Alcoholism and Addiction, is a significant resource in the fields of recovery, religious and spiritual literature. Long continues to educate and inspire a broader audience through his writings, including articles and devotions on theology, mental health, and recovery.

A firm believer in holistic recovery, Long actively leads initiatives promoting mental health awareness, recovery resources, and faith-based community support. His strategic efforts include securing grants for recovery services, establishing recovery ministries, and advocating for the underserved. His work fosters inclusivity, mentorship, and personal growth within faith communities, reinforcing the role of faith and support networks in healing.

Harold E. Long's personal life reflects his deep commitment to faith, recovery, and community. He is married to Suzie Long, with whom he shares five children and four grandchildren. Beyond his professional and ministerial pursuits, Long enjoys live music, golf, fishing, and hunting. He passionately supports Missouri sports teams, including the Kansas City Chiefs, St. Louis Cardinals, St. Louis Blues, and St. Louis City Soccer.

Harold E. Long's life journey—from overcoming adversity as a teenager to establishing a distinguished career in business and transitioning into pastoral leadership—demonstrates the power of faith, resilience, and community service. His dedication to recovery advocacy, mental health coaching, and faith-based initiatives continues to impact countless lives, making him a beacon of hope for those striving for transformation and purpose.