The First Priority Podcast First Priority of America

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.