Youth Down South

Merry Christmas from Youth Down South!

In this festive episode, Emma is joined by the entire Youth Department for a joyful Christmas Eve-Eve celebration filled with stories, memories, and family traditions from around the team. With nine people gathered around four microphones, it’s a warm, laughter-filled conversation that captures the heart of the season. The episode closes with the reading of the Christmas story from Luke 2—a reminder of the hope and wonder at the center of it all. From our Youth Down South family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

REWIND - Christmas Movies Episode (From 2024)

This week, we’re re-airing one of our favorite Christmas episodes from 2024! Emma is joined by Major Matt Satterlee and Chris Flanagan for a fun and lively conversation about Christmas movies—the classics we cherish, the films we can’t quite understand, and the ones social media voted as favorites and flops. From IMDb’s top picks to the “worst of all time” list, plus some Christian Christmas films that point us back to Jesus, this episode blends holiday cheer with meaningful reflection. Whether you’re revisiting it or listening for the first time, it’s a festive conversation you won’t want to miss.

AI in Ministry: Tool or Temptation?

In this episode, Emma sits down with Major Matt Satterlee and Jon Avery to explore the growing presence of AI in ministry. Together, they unpack the benefits, risks, and ethical questions surrounding tools like ChatGPT—asking how pastors, leaders, and teachers can use technology responsibly while still grounding their work in Scripture, prayer, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. From practical ideas to potential pitfalls, this conversation helps listeners navigate whether AI is a helpful tool… or a tempting shortcut in the life of the Church.

Real Talk with E.B. - Session Three: Camp Life

This episode dives into the heart of summer staff camp life—early mornings, late nights, inside jokes, and unforgettable faith moments. It’s another real talk with E.B., and we are joined by Walesca Garcia of the Florida Division as they share stories from their time on staff, reflecting on the friendships, challenges, and spiritual growth that make camp more than just a summer job. It’s a ministry, a family, and a life-changing experience that continues to shape lives long after the final campfire.

Why Bible Literacy Matters (More Than Ever)

In this episode, the Territorial Youth Department team talks about our renewed focus on biblical literacy—why it matters now more than ever, and how we’re helping young people truly engage with God’s Word. We’ll share the heart behind this initiative, highlight new projects like verse-memorization videos and EQUIP Online micro lessons, and explore how we can make Scripture come alive in every corner of our territory. Join us as we dream together about raising a generation that knows the Bible, loves the Bible, and lives the Bible.

The Southern Staff Band Visits South Africa

This episode features a conversation with Nick Simmons-Smith and Brad Rowland as they reflect on the Southern Staff Band’s recent ministry trip to South Africa. Hear stories from corps visits, music camp, community outreach, and cultural experiences, along with ways we can continue praying for The Salvation Army’s work there. Their reflections offer an inspiring look at how God used music and ministry to build meaningful connections across cultures.
 
Read more about this trip in the Southern Spirit: https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usa-southern-territory/the-southern-spirit/

Real Talk with E.B. - Session Two: Balancing Faith & Culture

We’re back with another Real Talk with E.B.! This time, Emma and E.B. sit down with Zion Maxwell from the Texas Division for a powerful conversation on the intersection of faith and culture. From music and fashion to heritage and worship, they unpack what it means to fully embrace who God made us to be—while staying rooted in Christ.
Zion reminds us, “God didn’t call me to blend in.” So how do we honor our culture, celebrate diversity in the Church, and still keep Jesus at the center?
Listen now to find out!

G-Lab: Where Ministry Meets Creativity

In this episode, we sit down with Vanessa Leggiero-Silva and Chloe Loden from G-Lab—the creative team behind so many of the Youth Department’s videos, graphics, and social media projects. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how G-Lab brings ministry ideas to life, from concept to final product, while keeping The Salvation Army’s mission at the heart of everything they do. Hear stories from their favorite projects, insights on the latest creative trends, and tips for how local corps and divisions can elevate their own media efforts.

#bruh

In this episode, we are joined by a few of our Youth Department team as we dive into some of today’s funniest and most viral teen trends—from TikTok memes and random sayings to the slang shaping Gen Z culture. Together, we talk about what these trends reveal about how young people think, connect, and find meaning—and how we can use them as bridges to spark fun, relevant, and faith-filled ministry conversations.

Ask the Chief!

It’s the episode you’ve all been waiting for! We invited YOU to send in questions—and the Chief Secretary, Colonel Deb Sedlar, joined us to answer a few of them! From lighthearted “what if” scenarios to meaningful conversations about leadership, ministry, and the future of The Salvation Army, this episode is packed with laughter, wisdom, and encouragement. Along with Majors Matt & Jamie Satterlee, it’s an inside look at faith, leadership, and a little bit of fun along the way.