Centered

Trading Your Plans for a Life That Matters

By: Jason Brown, Paul Asay

Narrated by: Jason Brown

This riveting story of a top-earning NFL center and his family who walked away from it all to follow God's call to alleviate hunger as farmers - a life they knew absolutely nothing about - illustrates the sacrifice and ultimate reward of obedience to our heavenly Father even when it doesn't make earthly sense.

“A remarkable story where family, deep self-reflection, and an unshakable belief in a path predestined by God triumph over fortune and comfort.” (John Harbaugh, head coach of the Baltimore Ravens NFL lineman)

Jason Brown had everything in the world. He was the highest-paid center in the game. He lived in luxury. Millions of people saw and admired him every week. Then in 2012, Jason heard a call from God that changed everything. Leaving behind an incredibly successful football career that paid millions, Jason turned toward a life he knew nothing about: farming.

It was only the beginning of his journey. Through third-party mismanagement and a run of bad luck, Jason lost most of the money he’d saved from his NFL days - the same money he’d planned to use to start his new career and donate fresh produce to hungry kids. Only a miracle could save Jason’s new dream. And that’s exactly what happened.

Centered is an inspiring riches-to-rags-to-true-riches story of one man willing to risk it all for the sake of his family. For the sake of loving others. For the sake of seeking God’s dreams first - and reminding each of us to do the same.

©2021 Jason Brown and Paul Asay (P)2021 Random House Audio

Critic reviews

“Former NFL player Jason Brown walked away from comfort and familiarity to accept a new calling that was out of his comfort zone. As owner of First Fruits Farm in North Carolina, Brown is known today as the Sweet Potato Whisperer. Farming has stretched him and his family yet brought them closer together and benefited countless families in need. The stories Jason shares point to a heavenly Father who loves to bless those who are obedient to His call.” (James Robison, founder and president of LIFE Outreach International)

“Jason Brown’s inspiring journey is a powerful self-reflection of a life filled with pride, humility, and a series of twists and turns that ultimately drove him and his family to give it all up, only to gain it all back and more, through his dramatic decision to walk by faith and follow God’s confusing and, at times, questionable calling.” (Chip Paillex, president and founder of America’s Grow-a-Row)

“This story chronicles the sacrifices, trials, and ultimately the provision, protection, purpose, and blessings that Jason and Tay Brown found as they left wealth and riches to follow God’s call to serve in His kingdom. Their lives offer inspiration to everyone, and this book gives pause and a chance for self-reflection of one’s own choices and priorities.” (John Mahshie, executive director of Veterans Healing Farm)

“Jason tells a very personal story - from being bullied as a child in a racially segregated community to becoming the highest paid center in the NFL, then retiring at the height of his career to follow God’s calling for him. His joy and fulfillment from helping others, while overcoming his own despair when his farm was on the verge of bankruptcy, is motivating. This is an excellent read from an inspiring person.” (Bubba Cunningham, director of athletics at the University of North Carolina)

Great book

Fun to listen to. Probably an easy read. Encouraged me to rely on the Holy Spirit. Encouraged to take eyes of myself. Encouraged to live rich with what Go’s has provided.

Faith in Jesus Christ is centering

Jason spoke to our staff and clients a few years ago. So had heard some of the providence provided by God before. I really enjoyed the whole story line and hearing each and every way that God is working.

Simply Amazing

Such a great self reflection book. Also know to fully trust and lean on God.

Praise God

God works in mysterious ways, and this is a great testimony. Never doubt our heavenly father.

The miracles never cease

Wow, what a story of grounded faith honored by the Lord with repeated miraculous provision! But Jason isn't looking through rosy glasses only; he recognizes God in the tough times, too. In my own ministry, I have helped professional athletes write their testimonies for more than 20 years. I can assure you that I have never encountered a story quite like this one.

Very Good Listen

I really enjoyed listening to Centered very inspiring. Jason did a very good job narrating
It’s a must read and listen

Inspiratuonal!

Inspirational!

Jason Brown scored a game winning touchdown! I never once wanted to stop listening nor felt disconnected.

Wonderfully spiritual!

What a wonderful scripture and Christ centered book. I feel every single struggle related to me personally. What a great story teller. It really hit home on my own spiritual walk. Faith in Christ is truly the thing I think we most need to live more fully in day to day life. This book is a great example of faith at work. Thank you Jason Brown.

Great story - poor performance

The story was wonderful. I wish the author had picked an experienced narrator instead of taking on the task himself. Most of the time it sounded choppy, like someone reading aloud in class. Other times he was smoother, but it definitely affected my ability to listen to and enjoy the story - I found myself wanting to grab the book and help him along.

Mistaking one’s decisions as God’s choices

As a Christian I struggle with the either or approach thinking to events in one’s life. God is with us through all things.