Take the Crown! 18 Core Principles to Grow Your Business and Improve Your Life

A self-made man whose life has been defined by his tenacity and vision, Miles Schnaer built upon his modest upbringing to become one of the most recognized and honored entrepreneurs in the “Heart of America.” In Take the Crown, Schnaer weaves stories of his experiences and achievements through the 18 core principles and values that have defined his career. The result is a frank and open narrative that provides a road map for how to navigate the proper balance among work, family, and civic interests. These 18 tenets, formed over many years and anchored in his faith, have allowed him to overcome personal and professional challenges and attain success in multiple business ventures in the process. His journey offers savvy readers sage advice that is applicable across many professions, industries, and stages of life.

Miles Schnaer is the owner of the Crown Organization, a multi-brand auto dealership based in Lawrence, Kansas. With a long history of success in the sales and service of major car brands, he has won numerous industry awards and twice been named the Time Magazine “Dealer of the Year” for both Kansas and Illinois. In 2017, Schnaer was inducted into the Lawrence Business Hall of Fame. His entrepreneurial drive also led him to the Willamette Valley in Oregon, where he founded Schnaer Family Wines and has produced four award-winning vintages. An avid golfer and sports fan, he now divides his time between Lawrence and Ft. Myers, Florida.  Miles and wife Paula are the proud parents of Ali and Mandi, as well as grandparents to Maddox. 

Mark Fitzpatrick is a graduate of the University of Missouri School of Journalism and has served as a writer and editor for a variety of publications. He is a past contributing writer to Strong of Heart, a periodical published by the Notre Dame Athletics Department. A sports public address announcer on every level from junior high to the professional ranks, he has been the voice of the Big 12 (f/k/a Big Eight) Basketball Tournament since 1982. He resides in Kansas City, Missouri with his wife Nancy.  The couple has four children and three grandchildren.  This is his third book.