“Leadership isn’t some abstract set of tenets for these two men, but rather a suite of core values and meticulously applied principles that they embody and put to work each and every day. With an artesian well of life and wisdom between them, Smith and Flowers draw upon their vast array of experiences leading, serving, competing, and teaching at the highest levels of the military, professional sports, and business to share what really makes successful leaders tick. Grounded by their faith, uncompromising in their self-discipline, and inspired by service to God and Country, the Colonel and the Cowboy offer a pragmatic and clear-eyed view of leadership that is simply second to none.” Carter Smith Retired Executive Director, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

“Craig is the epitome of a military colonel. From his career and life experiences, he leads by example and coaches to making well thought-out decisions. He’s a great motivator for anyone looking to be the best they can be whether in life or business. And Stran Smith’s record speaks for itself.” - Johnny Carrabba, Founder of Johnny Carrabba of Restaurants

“I worked with COL Flowers for 5 years. He was very easy to work with, down to earth and very respectful of his staff. I always thought of him as a mentor, I learned a lot from him; some of these things I still use today thirteen years after retirement.” - Mark T. Judson, Facilities Manager (ret,) West Point

“As a freshman on the West Point baseball team, I was navigating the challenges of competing at a Division I level while adapting to the rigors of the Academy. His calming presence and refined leadership style provided me with the guidance and reassurance I desperately needed to not only survive but thrive as a cadet athlete. My time with him that season profoundly influenced the trajectory of my career, and I am truly grateful to have witnessed such exemplary leadership firsthand.” - Cole White, West Point Class of 2008, Pittsburgh Pirates

“Great leaders inspire in people the confidence to succeed in times of stress -- and humor is the best tool to disarm a tense situation. I have known Craig Flowers for 40 years and he has always possessed a rare blend of sound judgment, unimpeachable character, and a razor-sharp sense of humor. When Craig talks about leadership, the reader is wise to take notes.” - The Rev. Colonel (retired) James H Silcox, Jr.

“Colonel Craig Flowers is one of those rare officers. His transition from decades spent in service to his country, which culminated in his exceptional work creating future leaders at West Point, into his current role as author, speaker and mentor, is one which will have a lasting impact on all those fortunate enough to learn from him.” - Brigadier General (ret) Woody Held PhD

Having spent a career as an on-air sports radio host and radio programmer, it was obvious within a few minutes of that lunch over some Texas BB-Q, that Craig possessed an uncanny ability to connect authentically with people from all walks of life. I left that lunch certain he and I would be life-long friends - and that I had to get him behind a microphone ASAP. - Erin Hogan - Longtime Austin / Central Texas radio personality and programmer 

“I’ve been friends with Stran Smith for 35 years, and I can attest that Stran’s character, principles and work ethic are a direct correlation to his success, both as world champion tie-down roper and an entrepreneur and rancher. I’ve been around a lot of champions and successful businessmen, but what sets Stran apart is what a truly great human being, husband and father he is, and I know that that comes from those same principles - ones that he shares in this book. For 35 years, with Stran, I’ve gotten to see that sometimes, the good guy wins. I’m proud to be his friend and one of his biggest supporters. I haven’t yet met the Colonel, but Stran’s endorsement of him means more to me than his impressive resume. I can’t wait for everyone to read this book! Stran Smith for President!”

Ty Murray, 9 time World Champion Cowboy
Co-Founder of the Professional Bull Riders and National Day of the Horse 

“Emerging leaders in our organization received a solid foundation built on strategy and integrity under the watchful eye and personal mentorship of Craig. His unique training and experience are brought to life through storytelling and his ability to inspire. Craig is an elite leader and I’m grateful to have experienced his dedication to the Mission, Mindset, Process approach over our decade long friendship.”
Markham R McKnight, Regional Executive Chairman, Gallagher & Co.

“I coached Colonel Flowers back in the mid 1980s when he played baseball for the TCU Horned Frogs. His devotion even then for loyalty, love and leadership was always above the broom His axiom for life today remains the same: “The way you do anything is the way you do everything” A Colonel & A Cowboy. Colonel Flowers hits a home run with this pitch!” 
David A Schmotzer, Retired Professor/College Baseball Coach

“I have known Craig Flowers for 36 years, and we served together under some tough conditions. He is the real deal. Craig leads by example in everything he does, and he understands that what you do is a hell of a lot more important than what you say.  I trust him with my life.”
Jeffrey S. Buchanan, Lieutenant General, US Army (retired)

“When COL Flowers spoke, you listened, you were captivated. Daily, he stepped outside of his designated role at West Point as my professor and doled out life lessons that paid enormous dividends for me in the Army, business, and my personal relationships. I count myself lucky to call him a trusted mentor and friend.”
Connor J. Crehan, U.S. Military Academy at West Point graduate `06, Army Quarterback & Iraq War Veteran