Uncommon Man 4: Leading a Mission Focused Family with Dr. Ryan Senters

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When Ryan Centers and his wife Sarah felt called to adopt a sibling group of five children from foster care, they knew their comfortable life with teenage children would be forever transformed. What they couldn't anticipate was how this decision would crystallize their family's mission and purpose in profound ways.

As leaders of multiple businesses serving vulnerable populations – from group homes for foster youth to residential facilities for individuals with developmental disabilities and luxury senior living – the Centers have created an uncommon family culture centered on teamwork, purpose, and kingdom impact. Their growing team of 400+ staff is making waves across Arizona while their family of eleven children (two biological, nine adopted) serves as the beating heart of their vision.

"Centers do hard things" isn't just a motivational phrase hung in their home gym – it's the foundation of their parenting philosophy. From 6 AM workouts with teenage sons to entrepreneurial ventures like their family snow cone business, Ryan intentionally creates opportunities for his children to develop grit and resilience. Unlike many modern parents who shield their children from difficulty, Ryan believes today's "anxious generation" suffers partly from lack of appropriate challenges.

This counter-cultural approach extends to technology management: no cell phones until high school, no social media until graduation, and tech-free Sundays. While initially met with resistance, these boundaries have created space for authentic connection and conversation. Ryan has witnessed the transformation when young people learn to make eye contact, engage in difficult conversations, and discover purpose beyond screens.

Perhaps most distinctive is Ryan's vision of family as a "kingdom team on mission" rather than individuals pursuing separate dreams under one roof. Through family meetings, service activities, and shared business ventures, the Centers operate as a cohesive unit working toward common goals. This mission extends beyond their immediate family through Friends of Ohana, their nonprofit helping foster youth develop workforce skills and independence.

Ready to rethink what family culture and intentional parenting can look like? This episode will challenge your assumptions while offering practical wisdom for creating a household that builds both character and kingdom impact. Visit ohanafriends.org to support their mission or join their upcoming Foster the Future golf tournament on September 19th https://www.ohanafriends.org/events/golf-tournament.

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