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A Colonel & A Cowboy Book - Paperback

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A Colonel & A Cowboy - Hardcover

$24.99

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Raves & Reviews

Pastor Matthew Hagge

“Psalms 37:23 tells us, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in His way.”

When I think about what it means to be a good man, I think of men like Stran Smith and Colonel Craig Flowers. Men who are devoted to faith, family, and building a better world for the next generation. A better world tomorrow will not happen by accident. It will require an effective game plan and the courage to diligently carry that plan out every day.

In the pages of this book, “A Colonel & A Cowboy” you will not only read the strategies that make a better world possible but learn from the firsthand experiences of men who possessed enough grit and determination to refuse to quit until the mission was accomplished and the goal achieved. No matter the challenges you are facing, goals you are pursuing, or motivation you need this book contains the road map that will get you there.

You will be encouraged, challenged, and inspired, but most of all you will become a part of the elite few who are willing to make the commitment to keep moving forward always believing that better is possible.”

Matthew Hagee,
Lead Pastor Cornerstone Church, San Antonio, Texas

Lieutenant General (Retired) Lawson W. Magruder III

“I have had the pleasure of observing Colonel(Retired) Craig Flowers for the past 35 years. Simply stated he is the “real deal”: authentic, purpose driven, and incredibly inspirational. As a true student of leadership in high performing outfits, he shares his vast experience in this wonderful primer.”

Lieutenant General (Retired) Lawson W. Magruder III
Author of “A Soldier’s Journey Living His Why: Inspired by a Little Green Book” and Co author of” Of Their Own Accord: A Company of Army Rangers Changing Lives in Changing Times”

Pastor Ed Young

True leadership often begins as a calling—a quiet resolve tested in life’s toughest moments. In A Colonel & A Cowboy, Stran Smith and Colonel J. Craig Flowers bring us a story not only of grit and resilience but of faith and purpose. Through Stran’s journey to winning the world championship gold buckle, we see a man who faced setbacks, loss, injuries, and an extreme medical issue —each challenge tempting him to turn back. Yet it was Stran’s faith, his solid foundation, that kept him grounded and moving forward, embodying the elite mentality of those who refuse to quit.

Colonel Flowers knows well the mental fortitude required to lead, recognizing in Stran a commitment to values that transcend worlds. Their combined wisdom offers more than a roadmap; it’s a compass for those navigating the rough terrains of leadership. Stran’s victory wasn’t just a trophy; it was proof of how faith, discipline, and resolve can transform adversity into triumph. Let their journey inspire yours.

Ed Young, Founder & Senior Pastor, Fellowship Church
New York Times Bestselling Author

Brittany Podolack

I have had the privilege of knowing Colonel Craig Flowers (ret) for many years, and his insights into values-based leadership and character development have profoundly influenced my own approach to leadership. As someone who is in the business of developing others, Craig’s partnership and guidance has been invaluable in my own quest to develop better leaders. His deep understanding of the principles of effective leadership is matched only by his inspiring passion for helping others grow. I wholeheartedly endorse his work and believe this book will be a transformative resource for anyone committed to becoming a better leader. Craig’s expertise and dedication make him a true authority in the field, and I am excited to see the impact of his insights through this book.

Brittany Podolack,
Chief Human Resources Officer, Athena Health

Trevor Brazile

“They say never meet your heroes because they might disappoint you, but Stran’s character wouldn’t allow that. Our relationship has gone from me looking up to him when I was younger and just starting out, to us being friends, and now getting to call him family. Whether it's in life or in the arena, when the chips are down, he’s one of the guys I want in my corner.

This book will not only give you a blueprint of how to be a champion, but how to be a champion who can look at themselves in the mirror every morning and like what they see. There are no shortcuts in life, but if you want to get to your goals faster, the strategies in this book will help you avoid pitfalls and discover the tactics that’ll help make you a champion and a leader.”

Trevor Brazile
26-time World Champion Cowboy

Dr. Octavious Bishop

Colonel Craig Flowers has been a wonderful friend to me in some truly rewarding times, and challenging times. Colonel Flowers is ethical, sound-minded, and a clear and effective communicator.

Octavious Bishop, PhD

Lecturer Steve Hicks School of Social Work (Sports Social Work)

Associate Adjunct Professor-Psychology

Austin Community College

Carter Smith

“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

Markham R. McKnight

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

Ty Murray

“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

J Boles

A Colonel & A Cowboy is an inspiring testament to perseverance, love, and self-discovery. This compelling story takes readers on a journey through the highs and lows of striving for greatness, culminating in a World Championship—but revealing that the true reward lies in the wisdom gained along the way. Perfect for athletes, parents, and entrepreneurs, the book resonates with anyone searching for their "best self" and reminds us that the key to unlocking our potential is always within reach. It’s a powerful, transformative read that stays with you long after the final page.

J Boles

Paradise Broadcasting

Aaron Watson

“From my conversations with Stran throughout the years, to watching him share his faith at cowboy church in Las Vegas during the NFR, to spending time around his family, I’ve always been both impressed and inspired by my friend Stran, and I feel the same way about his new book, “A Colonel & A Cowboy.” After reading it, I’m sure you’ll feel the same.”

Aaron Watson
Country Music Singer/Songwriter

Raves

“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 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

“Colonel Craig Flowers is a true leader His life story is incredible and molded him into an exceptional human and leader. He is authentic, bold and a great storyteller. His stories are motivating and entertaining.
- Dave Bailiff, NCAA College Football Coach