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 struggles students face today and the growing hunger for truth among young people. Together, they reflect on the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in transforming students’ lives and how, despite their imperfections, God’s grace is sufficient in all circumstances. Join us for this encouraging episode as we dive deep into the power of the Gospel in the lives of students and how we, as leaders, can make a lasting impact on the next generation. Connect with Bryan!  Website: BryanDrakeShow.comInstagram: @bryandrakeshowFacebook: Bryan Drake ShowTwitter (X): @bryandrakeshow

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. Throughout the conversation, Brad and Devon highlight the impact that simple shoebox gifts can have on children around the world, illustrating how each one is not only packed with love but also prayer. From incredible stories of children whose lives were forever changed to the ripple effect of hope that these gifts bring to entire communities, they explore the true power of the Gospel in action. Listeners will be encouraged to get involved—whether through packing shoeboxes, praying over the children receiving them, or supporting Operation Christmas Child's mission to spread the love of Jesus. This episode is a reminder that everyone can play a part in bringing the hope of the Gospel to those who need it most. Key Takeaways: The partnership between First Priority and Operation Christmas Child helps share the Gospel through shoebox gifts.Devon’s personal experience as a shoebox recipient led him to a life of serving God as a pastor.Every shoebox, packed with prayer and love, has the potential to change a child's life.The power of prayer and the Holy Spirit are essential in the work of Operation Christmas Child.Even small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect, impacting children and their communities for Christ.

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. We’ll dive deep into the responsibilities outlined on pages 8 & 9 of EPIC Roots, ensuring that each role is clearly understood. Club Coaches will learn how to assess student leadership and maintain strong relationships with school administration. Faculty Sponsors will receive guidance on how to stay organized and ensure the club operates within school guidelines. Student Leaders will get tips on promoting the club’s mission, leading meetings, and following up with students who make faith decisions. But it’s not just about roles and responsibilities—this episode also includes words of encouragement tailored to each role, helping you feel equipped and inspired as you step into the new school year. Whether you’re new to First Priority or a seasoned leader, this episode will give you the tools and motivation to make a lasting impact. If you missed any part of our summer series, don’t worry! You can catch up on all the episodes in our dedicated playlist. Join us as we close out the summer with a powerful look at what it means to lead, serve, and inspire through First Priority.

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 highlight the challenges and beliefs of young people, such as the struggle with mental health, the conflict between identity and scripture, and the tensions between culture and faith. The report emphasizes the importance of scripture engagement and the role of the church in reaching and guiding young people. Takeaways: Mental health is a significant challenge for young people, with high rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.There is a need to bridge the gap between scripture and culture.Scripture engagement is crucial in guiding young people and helping them navigate their faith.The church plays a vital role in supporting and encouraging young people, but there is a need for churches to be more accepting and less judgmental.The report highlights the importance of reaching out to nominals and helping them become committed Christians."35% of Gen Zers had suicidal thoughts in the last three months.""46% of Christian teens never read the Bible on their own.""Only 7% of those who identify as Christian are all-in committed Christians."----more---- Keywords: Gen Z, religion, youth culture, personas, scripture engagement, church, mental health

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 PoleOperation Christmas Child Packing Party: Anytime before November 18th, 2024 (National Collection Week: November 18th-25th)Thanksgiving Party (Host during Invite Week)Christmas Party (Invite Week Push)Easter (Invite Week Push)April 7th-11th, 2025: National Assistant Principal Appreciation WeekMay 1st, 2025: National Day of PrayerMay 1st, 2025: National Principal Appreciation DayMay 5th-9th, 2025: National Teacher Appreciation Week Join Brad and Steve as they explore how to make the most of these events, provide practical tips for planning, and share their personal experiences and successes. Whether you're a student leader, a club coach, or just interested in learning more about First Priority, this episode offers valuable insights into organizing impactful events that align with the First Priority mission.

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 country, but quickly dive into the heart of the episode by breaking down the EPIC Guide's monthly and weekly planning sheets on pages 23 and 26 of EPIC Roots. They explain how these tools help in organizing and executing the four-week EPIC plan, which includes Equip, Prepare, Invite, and Connect weeks. This detailed walkthrough ensures that Student Leaders can effectively share the Gospel and connect with their peers. Tune in to hear about: The significance of the monthly planning sheet and how it helps maximize the school year.The role of each week in the EPIC plan and why none should be skipped, but can be adjusted as needed.  Don't miss this episode filled with practical tips, humorous anecdotes, and valuable insights into making your First Priority clubs more effective and impactful!  Enjoying the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with your network! For more information on First Priority and to access the EPIC Guide, visit firstpriority.club!  ----more---- First Priority, student ministry, EPIC Guide, campus coaches, planning sheets, Equip Week, Prepare Week, Invite Week, Connect Week, strategic planning, Gospel, ministry success stories, youth ministry, campus ministry, campus clubs.

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 just another Bible study or Christian club; we are dedicated to training students to be influential leaders on their school campuses!  In this episode, join Brad and Steve as they discuss the importance of sharing our stories and the Gospel with friends at school so they can experience eternal life. They delve into what it means to be an influencer for Christ. Join them as they explore the Gospel Tools featured at the beginning of the EPIC Guide, including The Four and The Bridge, and learn how these tools can help you share the Gospel effectively. Tune in to be inspired, equipped, and ready to make a difference on your campus!

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 an organizationThe significance of collaboration and communication in addressing organizational challengesThe mission to take the Hope of Christ to every student in America as a driving force for the organizationThe need for strategic planning and adaptability to address weaknesses and capitalize on opportunities

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 generational leadership development within First Priority and the impact it has on students' lives.   Takeaways: Reading the Bible and understanding its context is crucial for effective leadership.Trust in God and His guidance as you lead.Handing off leadership to the next generation is important for the growth and continuity of First Priority clubs.Communication and open dialogue within the leadership team are essential for success.First Priority provides opportunities for students to grow in their faith and make a positive impact on their schools.Leadership development within First Priority is a generational process, with leaders passing on their knowledge and skills to the next group.

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 impact and missional focus of student leadership, emphasizing its role in fostering community and spreading the message of Christ. Highlights: Legal Framework: Steve and Brad discuss the legal framework that supports student-led initiatives in schools, emphasizing the importance of students' constitutional rights.Practical Impact: The hosts explore how student leadership provides a platform for active engagement in mission work, fostering meaningful connections with peers and spreading the message of hope.Peer Influence: They discuss the significance of peer-to-peer interactions in spreading the gospel, highlighting students as credible sources of faith expression who influence their peers through authentic relationships.Reaching the Unchurched: Steve and Brad emphasize the role of student-led initiatives in reaching unchurched teenagers, creating opportunities for transformation and spiritual growth.Training Future Leaders: They highlight how First Priority equips students with essential leadership skills, preparing them to become influential leaders in their schools and communities.

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 the challenges they face, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Lisa opens up about the heartwarming stories of student transformation she has witnessed through the First Priority club, emphasizing the impact of faith and community on their lives. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the importance of simple acts of kindness and genuine care in supporting students' spiritual growth and overall well-being. Additionally, Lisa highlights the significance of student-led initiatives within the First Priority clubs and the vital role of teacher sponsors in fostering a supportive environment for students.

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 their personal journeys of how they got involved with First Priority and the impact it has had on their lives.  Episode Highlights: Passionate Student Leaders: Mike and Kilton share stories of middle and high school students taking the lead in organizing club meetings and spreading the gospel on their campuses. Impact on Campus Culture: From organizing worship nights to leading Bible studies, students are making a tangible difference in their school communities by sharing the hope of Christ. Connection with Local Churches: Building strong connections between student-led clubs and local churches is key to sustaining and expanding the impact of First Priority. Practical Insights for Church Leaders: Mike and Kilton offer practical insights for church leaders on supporting and engaging with student-led initiatives, emphasizing the significance of youth empowerment and mentorship. Celebrating Transformative Stories: The episode features inspiring stories of students overcoming challenges, impacting their peers, and witnessing transformation in their school environments. For more information on the world of FP Miami-Dade and South Florida, visit https://firstpriority.cc/ or follow their Instagram @firstprioritysf. To hear more from Kilton, follow along on his Instagram @kiltonkess_  Thanks for listening!

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 teacher sponsors within school clubs, ensuring students have the necessary resources and support.Guidance on accessing club resources through local staff members or online platforms like the First Priority website.Discussion on the relationship-building aspect of being a teacher sponsor, fostering trust and support among students and faculty.Addressing common concerns and misconceptions regarding the presence of Bibles and religious discussions in school clubs.Recognition and gratitude for the dedication of secondary school educators, acknowledging their pivotal role in shaping young minds. Join Steve and Brad as they discuss the dynamics of being an FP Club teacher sponsor and the impact teachers can have on student-led initiatives within schools.

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 of Executive Director of First Priority in Johnston County. Passion for Gospel: Rachel's innate passion for spreading the gospel, evident in her words and actions throughout her teaching career and current leadership role. Navigating Challenges: Insights into the challenges Rachel faced in bridging the gap between education and ministry, and how she overcame them to empower students effectively. Empowering Student Leaders: Rachel's commitment to empowering student leaders, instilling in them the confidence and tools needed to share the message of Christ on their campuses. Understanding Spiritual Climate: Rachel's perspective on the importance of understanding the spiritual climate of schools, and how it informs effective outreach strategies. Personal Growth: Reflections on Rachel's personal growth and development as she transitioned into her role at First Priority, navigating obstacles and seizing opportunities along the way. Vision for Expansion: Rachel's vision for expanding First Priority's reach, both within Johnston County and beyond, driven by a desire to see more students impacted by the hope of Christ.

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 importance of educating teachers about the Equal Access Act, overcoming obstacles, and nurturing a culture of compassion in the local church.

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 as a student leader in First Priority, inspired by the guidance of Debbie DeBoer, his area director.The conversation explores the challenges and lessons learned in navigating cultural shifts within high school communities.Joseph discusses his transition from student leadership to board membership and his ongoing commitment to serving campus communities.Brad and Joseph emphasize the importance of mentorship and succession planning in nurturing the next generation of leaders within organizations like First Priority, ensuring a legacy of positive change.He shares personal experiences from his journey in business, highlighting the crucial role of hiring and partnering with others to overcome limitations and achieve growth.The discussion delves into the concept of leveraging strengths and partnerships, both in business and ministry, to foster growth and overcome challenges.Joseph offers advice for individuals considering involvement in First Priority or similar initiatives, stressing the importance of understanding the organization's vision, identifying personal contributions, and persevering through challenges with faith and endurance.The conversation concludes with insights on the spiritual aspect of leadership and the power of prioritizing a deeper relationship with God amidst life's distractions. Join Brad and Joseph as they celebrate the resilience and enduring impact of First Priority in empowering youth and fostering community change.

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: Introducing Mark Robbins: Mark shares his background and journey with First Priority, emphasizing his passion for empowering students and communities. Milestones and Growth: The episode celebrates First Priority reaching a significant milestone of a thousand clubs, reflecting on the impact of the organization's growth and the number of students reached with the gospel. Community and Business Leaders: Mark and Brad discuss the pivotal role of business and community leaders in supporting and advancing the mission of First Priority. They highlight the importance of networking and building relationships with key influencers to drive positive change in communities. Encouragement for New Directors: Mark offers words of encouragement for new directors and leaders entering the realm of student ministry, emphasizing the significance of trusting in God's plan, being confident in one's purpose, and persevering through challenges in fundraising. Stay Connected: Stay updated with the latest news and events from First Priority by visiting our website and following us on social media. Don't miss out on opportunities to make a difference in your community! First Priority WebsiteScholarship ApplicationSpring Meeting Registration - DecaturSpring Meeting Registration - South Florida Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Priority podcast. Be sure to subscribe and stay tuned for more inspiring conversations and updates from First Priority. Until next time, keep making a difference in your world!

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 zeroes in on the Business + Community Leaders aspect of First Priority. In this episode, Brad and Steve delve into how First Priority clubs have the potential to revolutionize communities, stressing why leaders should actively engage and invest in this mission. Brad and Steve also speak on the indispensable role that business leaders play in supporting and advancing the mission of First Priority clubs, emphasizing both the contributions they make and the significance of their involvement. Don't miss out on this episode of the First Priority Podcast, where Brad and Steve unravel the pivotal role of Business + Community Leaders in propelling community transformation through First Priority clubs. Tune in, gain insights, and be inspired to enact positive change in your community. Links Mentioned:  T-Shirt CompetitionSpring Meeting Registration - DecaturSpring Meeting Registration - South Florida