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 remind...

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...

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 i...

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 ministr...

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 corn...

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 mini...

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...

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 favor...

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...

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 Satter...

In this episode of the Youth Down South podcast, we chat with Kara Rodriguez and Major Matt Satterlee about Salvationist Service Corps (SSC) — looking back at the highlights of 2025 and giving a first look at the exciting opportunities coming in 2026! Don’t miss this inside scoop on what SSC is all about and how you can get involved.

Meet Danielle Delaney, the very first Territorial Youth Sergeant Major (TYSM) for the USA Southern Territory! In this episode, we get to know Danielle, hear her story, and learn what this new role means for youth and leaders across the territory. From representing young Salvationists to connecting at events like Commissioning, EQUIP, and TYI, Danielle shares her vision for strengthening youth mini...

In this episode, we dive into the world of Divisional Music and Arts (DMAs)—monthly gatherings where young people come together to rehearse, fellowship, and grow in their faith. Joined by Kyle McElroy (DMD for the ALM Division) and Matt Broome (DMD for the Texas Division), we explore what DMAs are, who can be involved, and how they prepare kids and teens not only for concerts and youth councils bu...

In this episode, we take a closer look at Jesus Theater—a powerful creative arts program that uses drama, music, and movement to share the gospel with children and adults alike. We’re joined by Skye Bussey, Assistant Divisional Music Director from the Georgia Division, who shares the history of Jesus Theater, her personal journey with the program, and stories of its life-changing impact. Together,...

We’re kicking off a brand-new monthly series with special guest Emaniel “EB” Brifil! Each month we’ll tackle a fresh topic relevant to youth ministry and leadership—starting with digital discipleship. In this episode, we explore how teens, young adults, and youth leaders can approach social media with authenticity, intentionality, and purpose.

In this episode, we look back at TYI 2025! From powerful speakers and engaging tracks to unforgettable night programs and life-changing moments, Majors Matt & Jamie Satterlee chat about how God moved throughout the week. Whether you attended or are thinking about coming next year, this recap will give you a glimpse of the impact TYI continues to have on young people across the territory.

This week, we sit down with Esther Kang and Gloria Diavangama to hear about their recent journey to International Headquarters for the Compass Forum. Representing the Southern Territory, they joined young leaders from around the world to share ideas, discuss challenges, and speak into the future of The Salvation Army. Hear how their experiences are shaping their ministry back home and fueling thei...

We’re wrapping up our special 3-part mini-series with the final Salvationist Service Corps (SSC) team—Team Scotland! In this episode, they share powerful stories from their summer mission trip, how they saw God at work, and the lessons they’re taking home. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to serve overseas or are thinking about joining SSC, this episode is the perfect finale to the series.

We’re continuing our special 3-part mini-series with the next Salvationist Service Corps (SSC) team—Team Chile! In this episode, you’ll hear firsthand about their summer mission trip experiences, the ways God moved during their time of service, and what they learned along the way. Whether you’re curious about international ministry or considering applying to SSC next year, this conversation will i...

We're kicking off a special 3-part mini-series today, where we'll be chatting with each of our Salvationist Service Corps (SSC) teams about their summer mission trips! First up is Team Alaska. These episodes are ones you won’t want to miss—they'll give you an inside look at what SSC is all about, plus some inspiring words for anyone thinking about applying to join SSC next year!

In this episode, we’re talking about the journey from youth group to pulpit—how God uses camps, corps programs, and service opportunities to call and equip young people for leadership. Guests Major Matt Satterlee and Major Jonathan Raymer share their full-circle stories of being shaped by youth ministry and now serving as officers who invest in the next generation.

In this episode, we’re talking about the power of presence—how simply showing up at games, concerts, and other everyday moments can deeply impact the lives of our young people. We are joined by Melissa Powell, Territorial Children’s Ministries Coordinator, and Jason Brown who is the executive minister at Broadway United Methodist Church in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Join us as we explore why being t...

This episode wraps up our 2-part series on worship teams as we talk about the tech side of praise and worship. Josh Powell and Bernie Dake join us to explore why technology isn’t just a behind-the-scenes support—it’s a vital part of helping people engage fully in worship and encounter the presence of God.

In this episode, we dive into the heart and purpose of praise and worship teams. We are joined by Josh Powell and Phil Laeger for a rich conversation about leading worship with authenticity, mentoring and involving youth, building a team with the resources you have, and choosing songs that speak to all generations. Don’t miss this first part of a two-episode series designed to inspire and equip wo...

In this episode, we explore EQUIP Online—a new catalog of training courses and resources designed to support and strengthen youth leaders, volunteers, and corps officers. Discover how this free resource offers practical tools, engaging lessons, and on-demand training to help you grow in ministry and lead with confidence. Whether you’re new to youth work or a seasoned leader, EQUIP Online is here t...