The First Priority Podcast

In this episode of the First Priority Podcast, we bring you Session 2 of Align 2024, featuring J.D. Simpson’s message on Encourage. Drawing from Hebrews 10:23-25, J.D. offers three key takeaways: Hold tight to your faith in Christ. Who are you motivating? “Us.” Take advantage of meeting with believers. “Us.” With over 30 years of ministry experience, J.D. Simpson serves as the Executive Director o...

In this special episode, we’re sharing a session from our First Priority annual conference, Align 2024. Join us as we hear from Joseph Daley, CEO and President of The Daley Group Real Estate Team in Birmingham, Alabama. Joseph’s career in real estate began at just 22, and he's now a top 5% agent in Birmingham and a recognized leader within Keller Williams Realty International. Beyond his success i...

In this episode, Brad Schelling and Steve Cherrico dive into the incredible impact that personal invitations have during Invite Week of the EPIC cycle. They share how a simple invite can transform a student's experience, making them feel welcomed and valued. Brad and Steve reflect on the courage it takes to walk into unfamiliar spaces, like a First Priority club, and how a personal invitation can...

In this episode of the First Priority Podcast, host Brad Schelling and guests Heather Bundy, Jacob Sharp, and Jenna Doll discuss the upcoming Align 2024 event in Nashville, Tennessee. They share personal introductions, the significance of the event, the lineup of keynote speakers, worship plans, breakout sessions, and plans for the off-site activities. The conversation emphasizes the importance of...

In this episode, Steve Cherrico sits down with Christian illusionist Bryan Drake to explore the challenges and triumphs of engaging students in faith, both on public school campuses and in everyday life. Bryan shares inspiring stories from his journey, including his personal involvement with First Priority since high school, and his work as a Christian illusionist.  They discuss the unique struggl...

In this episode, Brad sits down with Devon Rachae, pastor and Operation Christmas Child ambassador, to discuss the powerful partnership between First Priority and Operation Christmas Child. Devon shares his inspiring story of receiving a shoebox as a child and how it transformed his life, ultimately leading him to become a pastor and dedicate his life to serving others through this ministry. Throu...

Welcome to the grand finale of our EPIC Summer Series! Over the past few months, we’ve explored the ins and outs of First Priority’s EPIC Roots, offering insights, training, and practical tips to prepare you for a successful school year. In this final episode, we’re zeroing in on the vital roles that keep First Priority Clubs running smoothly: Club Coaches, Faculty Sponsors, and Student Leaders. W...

In this episode of the First Priority Podcast, Sam McCullough from OneHope discusses the findings of the Global Youth Culture report, which explores the attitudes and behaviors of Gen Z in relation to religion. The report identifies different personas, including the hurt nones, apathetic nones, nominal Christians, progressive committed Christians, and all-in committed Christians.  The personas hig...

Welcome back to the First Priority Podcast! In this episode, hosts Steve Cherrico and Brad Schelling share the importance of Invite-Week Events for First Priority clubs as they aim to take the hope of Christ to every student! Events Mentioned: September 25th, 2024: See You at the Pole Operation Christmas Child Packing Party: Anytime before November 18th, 2024 (National Collection Week: November 18...

Welcome to another episode of the First Priority Podcast with your hosts, Steve Cherrico and Brad Schelling! In this episode, Brad and Steve discuss the importance of strategic planning for FP Clubs and how to use the EPIC Guide to train Student Leaders to lead their club schedule efficiently!  The two kick off the episode by sharing updates on First Priority's exciting developments across the cou...

Welcome to the First Priority podcast! This summer, we’re diving deep into the new EPIC Guide. To kick things off, we encourage you to check out Brad and Grace’s EPIC Roots overview on YouTube for a solid foundation.  EPIC Roots is designed to equip student leaders with the tools they need to confidently share the Gospel with their friends and peers. Remember, First Priority clubs are more than ju...

In this episode, hosts Brad Schelling and Steve Cherrico dive into the SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis that our team collaboratively developed during our recent spring meeting. This comprehensive review highlights key insights and strategic perspectives gathered from our staff, and now shared with you!  Takeaways: The importance of humility and healthy conflict within...

In this episode, Brad Schelling interviews Gavin West, a First Priority Leadership Scholarship winner and leader of a First Priority club. They discuss Gavin's involvement in First Priority, his upcoming college plans, and his experiences as a leader. Gavin shares his favorite moments and challenges, emphasizing the importance of reading the Bible and trusting God. The conversation highlights the...

In this episode of the First Priority of America Podcast, hosts Steve and Brad dive into the importance of empowering student leadership, the basis of the organization. They explore the legal foundation supporting student-led initiatives in schools and discuss how it enables students to take ownership of their faith while exercising their constitutional rights. The hosts highlight the practical im...

Join host Brad Schelling as he sits down with Lisa Elliot, a dedicated teacher sponsor from Shreveport, Louisiana, in this episode of the First Priority podcast!  Lisa Elliot, a special education inclusion teacher at Youree Drive Middle School in Shreveport, Louisiana, shares her dedication to students' well-being. She discusses her passion for working with middle school students and navigating th...

Welcome to a special episode of the First Priority podcast, where we dive deep into the incredible work happening in First Priority South Florida, specifically in Miami-Dade County!  In this episode, Mike Gault (director of FP Miami-Dade) and Kilton Késs Janvier (associate pastor and FP club coach) sit down with Steve Cherrico, during the hustle and bustle of Youth Pastor Summit Orlando, to share...

In this episode, hosts Brad and Steve dive into the crucial role of teacher sponsors in facilitating student-led clubs, particularly focusing on First Priority clubs in schools across the United States; they explore the responsibilities and significance of teacher sponsors within the context of promoting faith-based activities on school campuses. Highlights:  Explanation of the custodial role of t...

Join hosts Brad and Steve in an insightful conversation with Rachel Gardiner, a high school teacher turned First Priority Director in Johnston County. Together, they dive into Rachel's story, her passion for empowering students, and her vision for spreading the message of hope across campuses. Highlights:  Rachel's Transition: Rachel's journey from being a high school teacher to assuming the role...

Join host Brad Schelling in this episode of the First Priority Podcast as he welcomes Chelsea Robbins, the new District Director of First Priority Kansas City! Learn about her experiences on the road to her eventual role at First Priority; Chelsea's story is fascinating! She discusses the challenges she faced and the pivotal moments that led her to her current position. Tune in as they explore the...

In this episode of The First Priority Podcast, host Brad Schelling sits down with Joseph Daley, a former FP student leader turned real estate agent and board member of First Priority Birmingham. Reflecting on Joseph's longstanding journey within the organization, Brad and Joseph discuss First Priority and its impact on youth leadership and spiritual growth. Highlights: Joseph shares his experience...

Meet the First Priority Team! Join Brad and Steve in this special bonus episode of the podcast where we get to meet 2 of FP's newest teammates!   Ashley Bell: Director, North Alabama. Tyler Wilkes: Regional Director, Metro Atlanta, Cherokee County. 

Meet the First Priority Team! Join Brad and Steve in this special bonus episode of the podcast where we get to meet 2 of FP's newest teammates!  Tishana Cundiff: Interim Director, Heritage.  Steve Snapp: Area Coordinator, The Ozarks.  

In this episode of the First Priority podcast, host Brad Schelling sits down with Mark Robbins, president of First Priority of America, for an insightful conversation about the importance of building networks in the context of ministry and community impact. Mark shares his journey with First Priority, highlighting the growth and impact of the organization over the years. Key Highlights: Introducin...

Join hosts Brad Schelling, EVP of Operations at First Priority of America, and Steve Cherrico, Executive Director of FP Greater Nashville and Regional Manager for FPoA, on the First Priority Podcast as they lead an exploration into the impact of First Priority on communities, and the impact of Business + Community Leaders on First Priority.  This Month's Focus: Throughout this month, the podcast z...

In this episode of the First Priority Podcast, Brad Schelling welcomes special guest Ryan McMichael to discuss the mission of First Priority and the importance of church partnerships in reaching every student in the United States with the Hope of Christ. Ryan, an area director with First Priority Greater Nashville, shares insights from his experience working with students and churches in Maury Cou...