In this episode, Ashley sits down with Major Sandra Pawar who serves as the leader of the Mission, Cultural and Evanglism department in the USA Southern Territorial Headquarters for The Salvation Army. Major Sandra is a woman with God's heart for justice.

In this episode of Open Air Podcast, Ashley sits down with Major Anne Westmoreland to explore how living and serving across cultures has shaped her faith, leadership and understanding of justice. From her Salvation Army upbringing in Denmark to two formative years in Bangladesh and her life as an immigrant in the United States, Major Westmoreland shares how each experience expanded her view of God and taught her to listen, remain curious and recognize the dignity and potential in every person. Their conversation examines the danger of confusing cultural Christianity with biblical truth, the importance of holding joy and lament together, and the need to depend on the Holy Spirit more than buildings, programs or resources. She encourages the next generation to keep learning, lead with openness and intentionally seek out people whose stories and experiences differ from their own—trusting God to transform the space between them.

Celebrating & discussing International Day of the Girl and it's importance on a foundational and spiritual level. Ashley Escobar, host, is joined by Melissa Powell and Gloria Diavangama from the USA Southern Territorial Youth Department.

In this episode of Open Air Podcast, Ashley sits down with Colonel Dr. Janet Munn to explore faith, justice and the vital role of women in leadership. Dr. Munn reflects on the spiritual legacy of her mother and grandmothers, the devastating loss of her mother as a teenager and how God used The Salvation Army’s community and mission to bring healing and purpose from her pain. Drawing from decades of global ministry, theological study and justice advocacy, she explains why women and men must lead together to fully reflect God’s image—and why the Church must confront the systems that keep women from using their God-given gifts. She also shares the powerful call God gave her when she feared her voice would not be heard: “Say it anyway.” Her story encourages women to remain close to Jesus, keep developing their gifts and speak the truth faithfully, trusting God with the outcome.

In this episode of Open Air Podcast, Ashley sits down with Commissioner Shelley Hill, World Secretary for Women’s Ministries, to discuss what it means to remain anchored through changing seasons of leadership and service. Drawing from more than 30 years of ministry, Commissioner Hill shares how God’s Word, her covenant and the assurance of His presence have sustained her across diverse appointments around the world. Their conversation explores the difference between platform and calling, leading boldly while remaining humble, mentoring through both encouragement and honest conversations, and caring for your soul without guilt. Commissioner Hill reminds listeners that rest is essential, unfinished tasks can wait and the greatest joy of ministry is seeing people transformed by Jesus. To every woman who feels tired, unseen or uncertain of her impact, she offers this assurance: you are loved, valued and appreciated for everything you do for God’s Kingdom.

In this episode of Open Air Podcast, Ashley sits down with Colonels Alan and Fiona Hofer to explore what it means to lead with love in marriage, ministry and everyday life. Drawing from nearly four decades of marriage and appointments across multiple countries and cultures, the Hofers share how adaptability, forgiveness and a shared faith have sustained their relationship and calling. They reflect on finding their deepest belonging as citizens of heaven, navigating conflict with prayer and humility, and remaining connected through simple rhythms of conversation, laughter and time together. Their story is a heartfelt reminder that marriage and ministry are covenants—not careers or contracts—and that when Christ remains at the center, two very different people can become stronger, wiser and better together.

In this episode of Open Air Podcast, Ashley sits down with her coworker Sheena Evans for an honest conversation about motherhood, advocacy and the sacred tension of caring for both our homes and the world around us. Sheena shares how raising her daughters has reshaped her understanding of service and strengthened her commitment to educating others about injustice and human trafficking. Together, they explore common misconceptions about trafficking, the vulnerabilities traffickers exploit and the importance of learning how to recognize and respond to injustice. They also speak candidly about working-mom guilt, compassion fatigue and the pressure to be everything to everyone. This conversation offers a meaningful reminder that justice belongs to God, we were never meant to carry the work alone and faithful service begins by giving Him what feels too heavy for us to hold.

In the first official episode of Open Air Podcast, Ashley sits down with Commissioners Kelly and Donna Igleheart, territorial leaders of The Salvation Army’s USA Southern Territory. Together, they reflect on their journey of faith, marriage, calling and service—and the people who recognized their gifts and invited them into leadership. They share candidly about the sacred weight of leading side by side, the importance of encouraging one another, creating opportunities for others and making space for women’s voices at the leadership table. Their conversation offers a powerful reminder that leadership is not about status; it is about seeing people, saying yes to God and faithfully serving wherever He places you. Whether you feel ready or not, your story is still being written—and one act of obedience may be the beginning of a journey you cannot yet see.